Gordon Edwin Reidt

May 23rd, 1940 - August 4th, 2024

Gordon Edwin Reidt passed away, within the loving embrace of his daughter on August 4th, at the age of 84. Gordon lived in Northern California his entire life. He was born in Oakland and then eventually moved to Santa Cruz, with his wife, Paula, with whom he recently celebrated 53 years of marriage. It was here, in Santa Cruz, that they raised their daughter, Amy, and adopted two furry felines: Salt and Pepper.

Gordon leaves behind his wife, Paula Charlson Reidt, 77, his only child, Amy Reidt, 44, of Suffield, CT as well as his grandson, Finnegan Edwin Eschert, age 6. He forged a special bond with Finnegan and embraced his new title as “PA”. Gordon loved the time he spent with his only grandchild, who he lovingly referred to as “Finn Guy” and relished in their shared love of steam trains, animals, and mayonnaise.

A sports enthusiast and Northern California native, Gordon loved the 49ers, SF Giants and could always be heard cheering “Go Cardinals” at each of his daughter’s high school sporting events.

Gordon was an avid swimmer, tennis player, and loved to travel; with some of his favorite places being Lake Tahoe and Twain Harte. He also loved exploring new places like, Australia, Alaska, Scandinavia, the Canadian Rockies, Mount Rushmore, and Mexico.

Above all, Gordon was a true gentleman, with a kind heart and a superior work ethic. He was a dedicated family man, who’s selflessness and positive spirit inspired those around him. Gordon lived life to the fullest and could always be seen with a smile on his face and a Pepsi in his hand.

Forever in our hearts.

We Entrusted Gordon Reidt's Care To

Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel

At Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, we have provided customizable memorial services for many years for families in the greater Santa Cruz, California, area. Every year, more and more families choose Benito & Azzaro when they experience the loss of a loved one. We are dedicated to celebrating life by crafting farewell ceremonies that capture the very essence of the individual. Our approach includes offering clear information about all available options, allowing ample time for decision-making without pressure, and maintaining flexibility to accommodate family wishes, from including the family pet to selecting a unique location. At Benito & Azzaro we believe that your spiritual path is your personal choice. Our services also include worry-free cremations and 24-7 access to assistance.

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Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Gordon’s life with a heartfelt message.

Carole Reidt Schraeder

It is especially sad to lose my favorite cousin. Our fathers were close and because we lived within two blocks of each other, we did many things together. When our parents were out or away, Bud, Bob, Don (he was the oldest) and I would get into mischief together. He was always "Bud". Sometimes. to us kids, he was "Buddinsky" or "Bud the dud"! No one called him Gordon except maybe his teachers, and later his wife. If we mentioned Bud, his wife did not know who we were speaking of. He was "Gordon" from then on. "He was extremely popular and twice president of his class at Tech. He loved swimming and swam almost every day. He won many, many medals when competing. At Twain Harte, while the rest of us kids were still sleeping, he would get up and swim laps at the lake. These are some of my memories growing up with Gordon (Bud). I will always cherish the times we spent together. He truly was the most kind, caring, gentle, polite and thoughtful person. these are some of the memories growing

Published August 19th, 2024

Amy

Published August 15th, 2024

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