Gordon Addison Burrow (Papa)

Born: May 21, 1938 - Passed: December 28, 2025

Gordon was a country boy with a pleasing sense of humor and big, kind heart. Everyone who met him liked him. Having Gemini traits, he could either be very quiet at a party, or out in the middle making jokes. But whichever, he always had a good time and people enjoyed being around him.

Gordon was born in Greensboro, North Carolina to Margie Keaton Burrow and George Otis Burrow. He lived his childhood around Greensboro and Raleigh North Carolina. Gordon's father died in a boating accident when he was fifteen. Later on, Margie married a special ed. schoolteacher, Howard Mills. Howard was always a loving and attentive stepfather. Gordon adored Howard.

The family eventually moved to California for better opportunities. In 1964 Gordon carried a punch bowl at a party for a California blonde, Jenny Hill, and that was the beginning of 59 years of marriage. They were married in September 1966.

Following his father's lead as a man in construction, Gordon worked for Bonadelle Industries for many years as foundation lead. One year there was so much rain, they couldn't work for weeks on foundations in the hardpan of north Fresno. That is when Gordon went down to the office of Fresno City and applied for a position as building inspector. He worked for over 30 years in this capacity and eventually retired from the City.

Gordon was in the Easton branch of Lions Club for over 30 years. He served as secretary for much of that time. He also took on the arduous job of being chair of the produce booth for Easton at the Fresno District Fair. Easton Lions won many awards and cash awards over the years under Gordon's dedicated direction for booth management. He also created and built all the huge display pieces that always had animation. He has a plaque at the fair honoring his service for all those years.

In addition, Gordon was a volunteer firefighter with his two sons for Engine 89 in Easton. Many meals (even holidays) were interrupted as these men jumped up to go to assist in an emergency call.

Gordon is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jenny; two sons David James. Sr. and his wife Lorraine; Michael Patrick Burrow and his wife Kristine; Grandson David James Jr. and his wife Mykayla and great-grandson Alvah Gordon; Granddaughter Madison Asberry and her husband Isaiah and great-granddaughter Scarlett, plus there is a great-grandson on the way here; Grandson Seth Burrow and his wife Leticia; Grandson Jake Upton of Utah; and adopted daughter Leigh Scheidell (the daughter Papa never got as he used to say. Also survived by many loving friends too many to name.

A tribute to an amazing human being who not only served his family well in all his hard work and devout dedication, but also his community. Gordon will be sorely missed by many, most of all his loving family. RIP Papa Gordon. We love you!