Gordon E. Vandermoss, Sr.

Gordon E. Vandermoss Sr., 82, of Suamico, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, after his battle with lung cancer.

Gordon was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, provider, and friend. He was married to his “blushing bride,” Lillian, for 55 years. Their life together was filled with hard work, laughter, adventure, and countless memories that will be treasured forever.

Gordon spent much of his working life as an over-the-road truck driver and was incredibly proud of his ability to provide for his family. Isn’t it crazy Dad continued working full-time until he was 81 years old? If that doesn’t teach a child work ethic, nothing will. Even after decades of hard work, retirement wasn’t something Gordon was ready for. He believed in working hard, taking care of his family, and doing whatever needed to be done.

When the kids were grown, Gordon and Lillian spent several years enjoying life together out on the open road. One of their most magical adventures was their trip to Alaska and Canada. Lillian even earned her CDL and teamed with Gordon, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

But Dad wasn’t all work. He loved races, traveling, good food, and just about any adventure that came his way. He especially loved to eat—sitting around a table with family and enjoying a good meal was one of life’s simple pleasures for him. He loved seeing new places, experiencing new adventures, and making memories along the way.

When they weren’t traveling, you could often find Gordon and Lillian belly up to the table for a game of Sheepshead (Schafkopf), surrounded by family, laughter, and a little friendly competition. Those ordinary moments became some of the most meaningful memories.

Gordon had a way of doing things that was uniquely his own. He didn’t always take the conventional route, but somehow, he always got the job done. Dad always had his own way of getting shit done. He was determined, hardworking, stubborn in the best possible way, and fiercely devoted to his family.

Gordon was a provider in every sense of the word. He worked endless hours throughout his life because taking care of his family mattered to him. Even toward the very end, while battling cancer, he was still thinking about his family and making sure every penny he could put aside was there for his beloved wife, Lillian. That was Dad—always making sure Mom was taken care of.

Gordon refused to let lung cancer take him down the way statistics said it should. He fought it in his own way, just as he had lived his entire life. He wasn’t going to let anyone tell him how his story was supposed to end. And when the time came, he passed peacefully, in his own way and on his own terms.

Gordon is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Lillian; his son, Gordy Jr.; his daughter, Kelly Kay; and his beloved stepchildren, Tammy, Tim, and Terry, whom he loved and considered his own. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and some truly amazing friends who loved him dearly.

His family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Mario, Lynn, and Laura for being there at the end—holding Gordon, comforting him, and surrounding him with love, while also providing comfort and support to Lillian during those final moments. Your kindness and presence during one of the hardest moments our family has ever faced will never be forgotten.

Gordon leaves behind a lifetime of hard work, stories, races, road trips, great meals, adventures, laughter, and memories. But most of all, he leaves behind a family who knew that beneath his tough exterior and his unmistakable way of doing things, everything he did was ultimately about taking care of the people he loved.

He worked until he was 81. He traveled. He chased adventures. He enjoyed a good meal. He played his cards. He loved his family. And he did it all his way.

Rest peacefully, Dad. You did it your way. We love you and will carry your memories with us forever.

A celebration of life will be held in the future.