Gordon Kenneth Andrew Coleman

   In Loving Memory of a Cowboy Musician, Husband, Father and Patriot 

   It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Gordon Kenneth Andrew Coleman. His life began on a cold winter day in Bismarck, North Dakota, when Gordon was born to Floyd and Leah Coleman on December 1, 1934. Many chapters filled Gordon’s 89 years, 5 months and 21 days including his love of music, service to his country, marriage and family. Gordon passed suddenly of a broken heart in Pacific Grove, CA on May 22, 2024 due to losing the love on his life, his wife Virginia, just 20 days prior. 

   Gordon was the first one in his family to go to college, with a Bachelors in Mathematics/Physical Science and Masters in Political Science/Mathematics, both from North Dakota State University. He completed all but the dissertation for his Doctorate at Texas A&M University for Political Science. 

   Music underscored Gordon’s life throughout the decades. At the age of 15, he was radio famous playing accordion and bass for the Twilight Travelers. His love of country music continued center stage with Gordie and the Sparkling Rangers. His talents evolved to rock and roll in the 1970s with the Gordon Coleman Band, influenced by musicians including Buddy Holly, John Denver, Jim Croce and the Eagles. As a 27 year Board Member Emeritus serving Pacific Grove’s community, some of his favorite memories included performing on the Lovers Point pier the last Saturday in July. 

Following in his father’s footsteps, Gordon also served in the US Army. After leaving the military, he worked for Northern Michigan University as a professor, where he met and married Virginia, also an NMU professor and TV starlet from Suomi Kutsu (Finland Calling). As a civilian, he was an Operations Research Analyst (rank of GS-13) who worked for multiple branches including the US Air Force, US Navy, and US Army.

   Married life proved to be quite an adventure with Virginia, living in Michigan, Texas, Panama and California. They were married on December 21, 1968 and celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in 2023. With 3 children, Gordon and Virginia moved the family for the 13th and final time to Pacific Grove. Gordon is survived by his children Joni (Shelby) Birch, Andrew (Jess) Coleman and Kaye Coleman, and his grandchildren Thor Birch, Mackenzie, Sidney and Ainsley Coleman. Gordon was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Coleman, and his parents, Floyd and Leah Coleman. 

   Honoring Gordon’s wishes, no service will be held. The snack table will be sponsored in Gordon’s memory at the next Hootenany at the P.G. Art Center on July 13, 2024. In lieu of flowers, please raise your voices in song at the Hoot and/or donate to LoveShriners.org to help make everyday miracles for kids. Gordon was a Shrine Clown (aka Ho-Ho the Clown) who donated his time and resources by sharing music, humor and love.

   “Happy trails to you, until we meet again. Happy trails to you, keep smiling until then. Who cares about the clouds when we’re together? Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather. Happy trails to you, until we meet again”- Roy Rogers 

   As you ride off into your final sunset, know that you are loved and in God’s hands. Gordon– your cowboy musician’s song is over, but the melody lingers...