John E (Judge) Gordon, Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, 91, of Hancock, NY, peacefully entered eternal rest on December 16, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born, April 7, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, to Perry E and Marie (Ernster) Gordon.

John, fondly referred to as 'Jack', developed a passion for flying at a very young age, earning his pilot's license before graduating from Cantwell High School in 1951. This same year he joined the Army Reserve while attending University of Southern California and transitioning to active duty for the Korean War. Following the war, he went on to Officer's Candidate School, then Flight School and Helicopter Training.

John's distinguished military career spanned over 22 years extending his piloting expertise in Korea, West Germany, and two combat tours in Vietnam reaching the rank of

Lieutenant Colonel. He was awarded two Purple Hearts for his bravery and wounds sustained during his first tour in Vietnam and played a role in the crucial Tet Offensive of 1968.He was also earned a Bronze Star and NINETEEN Air Metals. During these difficult years, John forwarded his education earning a bachelor's degree in business.

After moving many times, in 1973, John retired and settled in Hancock, with his wife, Evelyn and their seven children. John then continued his education at SUNY Binghamton graduating with a master's degree in accounting. With this he opened an H&R Block franchise and served the community with their tax concerns for over 20 years.

In 1974, he was elected as the village of Hancock Justice and served in various judicial capacities for 35 years. Known for his tough yet fair approach, his wisdom and dedication to justice left a lasting impact on the community.

John joined and supported many local groups including the Rotary (serving as treasurer and President), the Holy Name Society of St. Paul's, the American Legion and the Read Memorial Hospital Board.

John was devoted to his Catholic faith and to his Church. From the time he was young, he found peace at mass and attended often.

Surviving are his seven children, Dorlene Cuellar, Perry (Sherri) Gordon, Mary (Chris) Reno, Paul (Sharon) Gordon, Patrick Gordon, Teresa Dirig, and Phillip (Leigh Ann) Gordon; his sister Peri Lue (Ron) Gordon; his ex-wife, Evelyn Hoops; and over 23 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by grandson, Christopher Robinson.

John will be remembered for his love and dedication to his family, devotion to his Catholic faith, his incredible memory, his passion for flying, his mostly humorous conversations in 'his' Circle E booth and his unwavering service to others.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 4PM-7PM with rosary at 6:30PM at the Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11AM at St. Paul's Church, Hancock. Interment will follow in St. Paul's Cemetery, Hancock.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Paul's Church; 346 West Main Street; Hancock, NY 13783 or The Hancock Fire Department; 24501 NY-97; Hancock, NY  13783 or the Louise Adelia Read Memorial Library; 104 Read Street; Hancock, NY  13783.

Arrangements by Henderson-Biedekapp Funeral Chapel, Hancock, NY.