Obituary

Gordon Hamilton Geddes 1934—2020
Gordon Hamilton Geddes was called home to be with Jesus on January 21, 2021, after a long experience with cancer. He was born in Rockford, IL to Leslie H. Geddes and Mildred Purdy Geddes on January 24, 1934. He was schooled in Rockford Public Schools, graduating from West High in 1952. He also enjoyed a farming experience south of Winnebago, IL. Gordon then attended Texas A&M University and Indiana University graduating in 1956. After the tour of duty in the United States Army, he joined the Greenlee Brothers Company where he held various sales and managerial positions, retiring after 40 years. Having grown up in Rockford, Gordon wanted to give back to his community. He served on numerous civic and charitable organizations. He retired from the SwedishAmerican Hospital Board after nearly 30 years of service and was a member of the SwedishAmerican Foundation at the time of his death. His membership at First Free Church led him on his journey with Jesus Christ. Gordon married Bonnie in June 1959. She predeceased him April 1996. He remarried after meeting his current wife, Nada on a blind date arranged by a mutual friend. They were married on September 13, 1998 at her sister's home in Lake Mills, WI. Nada and Gordon made their home at the Poplar Grove Airport where Gordon, a pilot for 64 years, kept his airplane. They both enjoyed annual trips to Europe especially, Scotland, Germany and Austria. Gordon is survived by his wife, Nada; sons, Leslie of Blackhawk, CO and Duncan (Kris) of Rockford, IL; grandchildren, Cameron and Bronwyn; brother, Allan of Williamsburg, VA; and Nada's children, Brad (Michelle), Kelley (David) and John (Joanne). Also predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Caroline and Sally.
A family graveside in Scandinavian Cemetery will be conducted with Rev. Chuck Rife officiating from First Free Church. A memorial service to come at a later date. Memorials may be made to SwedishAmerican Foundation, 1415 E. State St., Suite 100, Rockford, IL 61104 or First Free Church, 2223 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61107 or IL Railway Museum, PO BOX 427, Union, IL 60180. To share a memory or online condolence, visit olsonfh.com