Connect with us

News

Michigan Mourns Loss of Beloved Physician Clayton Hill Gordon at 98

Published

on

Clayton Hill Gordon Bloomfield Hills Michigan

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. — Dr. Clayton Hill Gordon, a revered physician and community leader, passed away at his home on January 15, 2025, at the age of 98. Surrounded by family, Gordon’s death marked the end of a life dedicated to medicine, mentorship, and service.

Born on March 15, 1926, in Pontiac, Michigan, Gordon was a sixth-generation physician who specialized in cancer and abdominal surgery. He practiced at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac and William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, earning a reputation for his surgical precision and compassionate care. “Friends and patients tell stories of stitches that healed without a trace, and of his amazing kindness and gentleness when attending to them,” his obituary noted.

Gordon’s career spanned over five decades, during which he mentored countless medical professionals and contributed to numerous community initiatives. He was a past president of the Oakland County Medical Society and a member of the William Beaumont Hospital Foundation. He also established the Annual Science Award at Detroit Country Day School, where he served as Chairman Emeritus.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gordon was a devoted family man. He is survived by his children, Peter Fletcher Gordon and Susan Gordon Kern, as well as six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. His wife of 72 years, Grace Fletcher Gordon, preceded him in death. “He gifted us his three life lessons: Love Always, Never Give Up, and Keep Having Fun!” his family shared.

Gordon’s life was marked by a love of sports, travel, and adventure. An avid hunter, fisherman, and golfer, he earned the nickname “Champ” for his prowess on the tennis court. He also enjoyed summers in Oscoda, Michigan, and family reunions in Bermuda. “At 98, he could still pull a 50lb bow with either hand,” his obituary recounted.

A celebration of Gordon’s life is planned for late spring at Pine Grove Cemetery in Alpena, Michigan. The service will feature music, including bagpipes and a bugle, and a reception at the Alpena Yacht Club. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the John Hurter Gordon III Endowment Fund at Detroit Country Day School.