Posted January 29, 2019

John R. Gordon of Philadelphia, formerly of Aldan, died at age 88.

He was the son of the late Harry and Helen Gordon (nee Brady). A well-known Irish tenor who performed across the country and in Ireland, Gordon notably sang on St. Patrick’s Day for more than 30 years at the Irish Pub at 12th and Walnut streets in Philadelphia.

He was a successful businessman especially in the development field. By tapping friends in the entertainment industry, he successfully raised funds as development director for 15 years at St. Ignatius Nursing Home in West Philadelphia. Under the care of the Felician Sisters, the home continues to serve infirmed and elderly residents on limited incomes.

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In an interview with longtime friend and former managing editor of The Catholic Standard and Times, Michael Houldin, Gordon looked back on his life with pride:

“The singing has been great fun — I’ve met so many wonderful people around the world and hopefully I’ve brought a little joy to their hearts,” he said. “But it was the work I did at St. Ignatius that was most important and most satisfying. Everyone wants a job where they can make a difference and I feel that at St. Ignatius I had that kind of job.

“As development director, I encouraged people to ‘Dare to Care’ and they responded wonderfully. I worked with a lot of great people there to help improve the lives of the residents and make their lives a little better. What more could you ask for?”

Relatives and friends are invited to Gordon’s funeral Mass on Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. at St. Eugene Church in Primos, preceded by a viewing in church from 9:30 to 10:50 a.m.

Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon.

Gordon is survived by his sister Mary Lou Fighera (Frank), and by many nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his five sisters and one brother.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gordon’s memory may be made to St. Ignatius Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 4401 Haverford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19104.