Kenneth L. Gordon

Mr. Kenneth Lowell Gordon, son of Thomas B. Gordon and Elma Leslie Wheeler was born March 7, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri. He passed away July 11, 2024, at Kansas University Medical Center.

Affectionately known as Cowboy and KG, Kenneth welcomed God into his heart at an early age and was an active member of Central Christian Church where he was known by his good works.

He always showed respect, kindness, and compassion to everyone he met; he was an unparalleled friend who was there for anyone in need of a ride (day or night) or assistance with anything requiring an extra person. Kenneth was the kind of man who took friends to medical appointments, the grocery store, and was so trustworthy that people authorized him to pick up their children from daycare. Over time the children lovingly referred to him as “Pawpaw.”

Kenneth put the “C” in Cowboy! If you closed your eyes and thought about him, you would envision a proud handsome man with a radiant smile, wearing cowboy boots, a Stetson hat, and freshly starched creased jeans. His whimsical personality was infectious and paired perfectly with his enjoyable sense of humor. Kenneth was a loyal friend and loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Even with the diagnosis of heart disease the light of his spirit would not dim, nor could it keep him from enjoying life and fun times with family and friends.

He loved playing pinochle (a card game) with his friends on various days throughout the week and dominos with his son weekly. KG loved watching western movies like “Lonesome Dove” and “Gunsmoke.” He read books by Louis L’Amour and enjoyed another favorite pastime with his son, listening to his favorite song “Soul Heaven,” sung by Johnny Taylor. He was an avid sports fan who loved the Kansas City Chiefs and never missed watching a game during football season. Another favorite pastime of Cowboy’s was cooking! He was a fabulous cook and anyone at his dinner table was in for a mouthwatering treat when he placed his “Kenny Cornbread,” chili or chicken salad in front of them to feast on; no one ever left his home hungry.

Kenneth leaves to cherish his memory: children - Kenneth Dominique Gordon, LaTonya Yvette Gordon, and Tina Oliver; granddaughter, YaNiya Marie Gordon; sister Pamela Hill Richards (Danny); aunt, Willyetta Johnson; uncles, Franklin “Mikie” and William “Bill” Wheeler; and a host of caring nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.

Preceding him in death: Son, Kenneth Lowell Gordon Jr.; Mother, Elma Gordon Hill; Father, Thomas B. Gordon Sr.; Stepfather, Leon C. Hill Sr.; and brothers, Thomas Jr., Leon Jr., Eugene “Gene” and Luther Hill. Although losing Kenneth broke our hearts into a million pieces, let us continue to celebrate his life and the joy he brought to every one of us.