Obituaries

Robert Phillips Gordon
Passed Away
1935 – 2021
I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of my Father, Robert P. Gordon. My Dad passed away at his home on Sunday, April 11, 2021, with family by his side at all times. My Dad had complicated medical issues he fought through, which became particularly vexing the last 2.5 years of his life. The final six months were spent in and out of the hospital.
Robert was born in 1935, and was the only child of James and Ethel Gordon. My Grandfather, James B. Gordon, was a Hollywood cameraman and was the recipient of two Academy Awards for his work. My Dad was always extremely proud of his Father’s accomplishments, which probably inspired his love of watching films and his passion to collect countless movies on DVD.
Robert P. Gordon is survived by his two sons, Bruce and Michael; his daughter-in- laws, Tami and Lauri; his son-in-law, Juan Yanez; and his three grandchildren, Lizzie, Max and Josh. Robert’s wife, Joanne Gordon, passed away in 2003; his eldest daughter, Leslie, passed away in 2017; and his youngest daughter, Julie Yanez, passed away in February of 2021.
Robert graduated from Beverly Hills High School and went on to attend UCLA as an undergraduate and then on to USC Law School. As a result of attending USC Law, he remained a devout Trojan Football fan throughout his entire life. He collected USC Football Programs going back to 1939. He was a brilliant attorney, specializing in bankruptcy, and was a partner in the very reputable firm of Goldman, Gordon and Lipstone for 30 years. He had the unique quality of being both a respected and feared attorney who practiced Law with integrity and honor but also compassion and humanity, for both his clients and the opposition.
My Dad loved traveling and visited many different countries around the world. He went to many countries throughout Europe and the Far East. He spent most of his Summers in Avalon, California, with family. While not exotic, it was tranquil and rejuvenating for his spirit.
He was a lover of games, particularly backgammon, bridge and chess. His fondness for these activities naturally rubbed off on his children. He was also a big fan of fine art and music. He was very fond of the music of the 1960’s, particularly The Beatles, which also rubbed off on his children.
My Dad had a wonderful sense of humor and a keen wit. He loved to laugh and enjoyed comedy movies and sharing laughter and humorous stories with friends and family.
I enjoyed a very close relationship with my Dad. We would speak on the phone multiple times a day. He was never boring or dull; we shared countless hours laughing about things that amused us. He was my best friend. I’m happy he is no longer suffering. I’m sad that I will never be able to hear his voice, share a joke or look at his sweet, smiling eyes. He lived a wonderful life, and I would describe him as a great Father and a great man. He could always be relied upon to support his family members in whatever capacity he could help them. I tried my best throughout my adult life to return the favor when he needed it.
“And in the End, the Love you take is equal to the Love you make.” The Beatles
I love you Dad!
Rest in Peace ~ Robert Phillips Gordon ~