Gordon Nicholas Story

Gordon Nicholas Story, of Astoria, son of George and Theresa Story, died on May 30, 2017, at St. Vincent Hospital in Portland.

He was born in Oregon City on May 29, 1933, and was a curious and likable young man. He attended grammar school in Oregon City, and spent summers in Astoria. His father was a commercial fisherman, fishing Celilo Falls and the Columbia River, while his mother worked in the canneries. The family eventually moved to Astoria, and Gordon graduated from Astoria High School in 1952.

Following high school, Gordon attended Adrox School in Portland and received a diploma in the study of diesel engineering. He enjoyed repairing engines all his life. In 1960, Gordon bought a share in the Astoria Plywood Mill. It was not easy work; he sorted wood on the green chain, was a dryer tender, and drove a jitney as well. He continued to work his share until the economy changed, and the mill closed. He went to work for Ag-Bag Corp., and continued there until his retirement.

On July 7, 1962, he married Darlene Velder. They had two children, and would have celebrated their 55th anniversary later this year.

Gordon was a family man, and known as a gentle giant among his friends. He was a tinkerer, and many would say a “jack of all trades.” He always looked for a bargain, and could never pass up anything listed for “free.” He loved his Harley Davidson, and traveling the country. He taught both of his children to ride motorcycles. The family had a travel trailer, and loved exploring the Pacific Northwest.

He was an avid boater, and maintained multiple engines in case one broke down. He enjoyed taking his family to Cullaby Lake and the Columbia River for water skiing and wake boarding, or to simply fish for salmon and sturgeon. He was a wonderful father and husband, and will be missed.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene; his son, Ron Story, and daughter-in-law, Francoise Bourdonnec, of Portland; a daughter, De Ann Story, and son-in law, Larry Hill, of Tigard; two grandchildren, John Hill and spouse, Annie Zhang, of Beaverton, and Loren Hill of Metaline Falls, Washington; a sister, Delores Miller of Gervais; a brother-in-law, Duane Velder, and spouse, Diana Velder, of Seaside; a sister-in-law, Mary Lou Velder of Puyallup, Washington; and special family friends, Brigid O’Callaghan and Chris Thompson.

Services will be June 6 at St. Francis De Sales Mission in Hammond; Rosary at 11:30 a.m., and funeral at noon. A reception will follow the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to St Francis De Sales Mission’s Maintenance Fund or a charity of your choice.