Doran P. Gordon

Doran P. Gordon, 87, of Dover passed into eternal glory on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 from the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease.  Born on November 1, 1935 to James “Glenn” and Lela Gordon on the family farm in Dover Township, and lived the rest of his life on his own adjoining farm.  He raised Hereford cattle and Suffolk sheep, but was most proud of the four sons he and Marlene raised there.

Doran began his professional journey at Union Camp and remained an integral part of the company for an impressive 42 years. Throughout his career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment and loyalty to his work. In addition to his diligent work ethic, Doran possessed a deep sense of patriotism and served his country with the United States Army.  A born again Christian, saved by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, he was a dedicated member of the Dover Bible Church, where he served in many capacities and participated in several mission trips, and hosted many missionaries in their home.  He was also a member of the Winfield Grange, Tuscarawas Valley Pioneer Power Association, Ohio Sheep Shearers Association, where he taught classes on shearing, Ohio two cylinder Tractor Club, and was a Tuscarawas County 4-H Livestock Advisor.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Doran cherished the love and support of his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James "Glenn" and Lela Miller Gordon, as well as his brothers Lyle and Olin Gordon and sister Glenda Gordon. Their presence in Doran's life contributed significantly to shaping him into the remarkable person he became.

Doran is survived by his beloved wife of over six decades, Marlene Harvey Gordon. They met during a 4-H program and were married on July 19, 1958. Their union was a source of strength and joy throughout their lives together.

Doran's legacy continues through their four sons: Gregory Paul (Cheryl) Gordon of Shreve, James William (Marianne) Gordon of Dover, Philip Ray (Lori) Gordon of Batavia, and Eric Doran (Summer) Gordon of Zanesfield. Doran took great pride in their accomplishments and supported them every step of the way. He taught them many skills, including the value of hard work, the skill of sheep shearing, and together, they restored many antique tractors and built a Model T truck. Doran also leaves behind a brother, Von (Shirley) Gordon of Dover; sisters in law, Carol (Dave) Lear, Kay (Bill) Huth; and brother in law, Dick (Linda) Harvey. 

Doran was an adoring grandfather to 17 grandchildren who are scattered throughout the world, Kristy (Joel) Herman and Kala (Jorden) Shaw of Dover, Kami (Brad) Miller of Kolkata, India, Cody (Meghan) Gordon of Dover, Laura (Iain) Fisher of Exeter, California, Paul (Amanda) Gordon of Loveland, Ohio, Mark (Kayla) Gordon of Saginaw, Michigan, Todd Gordon of Columbus, Brittni (Brett) Stowe of Knysna, South Africa, Taylor (Michael) Romano of Dunstable, Massachusetts, Shelby (Mason) Mellano of Lima, Tristan Gordon of Greenville, South Carolina, Miriam (Zachariah) Froman and Landon Gordon of Bolivar, Wyatt, Emersyn and Stella Gordon of Zanesfield and 23 great grandchildren, and took immense pleasure in watching them grow and thrive. His role as a grandfather was one he embraced with joy, showering his grandchildren with affection, wisdom, and unforgettable memories.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 28^th starting at 11:00 am in the Dover Bible Church with Pastor Mark Britton officiating.  Interment will be at the Dover Burial Park.  The family will be greeting friends on Sunday in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.  Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Doran may do so by visiting the online obituaries link on the funeral home’s website.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dover Bible Church for his granddaughters who are on the mission field; Brittni Stowe in Africa and Kami Miller of India.  Donations can be made to Dover Bible Church at 4173 Minard Rd, Dover, Ohio 44622.