Gordon Burrows Obituary

Burrows , Gordon Byron

Gordon Byron Burrows 77, passed away on September 5, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. Born on December 9, 1947 in San Diego, Gordon spent most of his early years in California before making Chicago his beloved home for the last fifty years. Gordon graduated high school in Topeka, Kansas in 1966. He received a political science degree from UCLA in Los Angeles, Ca. Following his academic pursuits, he served in the United States Navy from 1971-1975. Stationed at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, he worked as a cryptographer and was twice awarded as "Sailor of the Quarter". One of his most memorable moments during his service was participating in President Nixon's second inauguration as a member of the Color Guard in 1973. After completing his military service, Gordon embraced a variety of careers that reflected both his skill and his patience. He was a licensed electrician and later worked as a bus driver in the loop for the Chicago Transit Authority. However, it was his role as a tavern owner that brought him his greatest joy. From 1983 to 1994, Gordon co-owned "Company", a bar located at the corner of Schubert and Halsted in Chicago's Lakeview East neighborhood alongside his partner of 33 years Ron Helizon. Gordon and Ron created a vibrant space that became known not only for its welcoming atmosphere but also for hosting theatrical performances and charitable fundraisers. Gordon was known by those close to him as wise beyond his years, he had a sharp wit and impeccable manners. Though reserved and private by nature, he possessed a great sense of humor and was always ready for thoughtful conversation. As the eldest brother he held a special place within his family. He had many passions that enriched his life. A voracious reader, Gordon especially enjoyed sharing Dick Francis novels with his mother, Josephine. His love for cooking was equally strong: one of his prized possessions was a signed copy of "from Julia Childs Kitchen", which he passed on to his nephew Evan studying to become a chef. A lifelong baseball fan, Gordon grew up cheering on the LA Dodgers but later became an ardent supporter of the Chicago Cubs-so much so that he once lived close enough to Wrigley Field to hear the games from his home. In recent years, Gordon found companionship and friendship at his residence, G & A Senior Living apartments. He formed lasting bonds with fellow residents Jun, Sammie, Henry, Dorothy and Angela. Gordon is survived by his three younger half brothers : Greg (Pam) Keeler of Jackson, Michigan; Geoffrey (Michelle) Keeler of Nantucket, Massachusetts; and Jonathan Keeler of Frankfort, Kentucky. He also leaves behind three nephews – Zackary and Nick Keeler of Jackson, Michigan and Evan Keeler of Nantucket, Massachusetts- as well as cousins on both sides of his family: Winston (Anne) Statton; Lane (David) Jurek; Debra (Hans) Statton; Bob (Sue) Statton; Cindy (Richard) Mortara; Kathy (John) Howald and Karyn Macdonald. He was predeceased by his partner Ron Helizon, his grandparents Dr. William and Pearl Pugh, Byron C Burrows and Marie Verna Wilde, and Foss and Eva Chase. His Parents Dr. Gordon Frank Burrows and Frances Josephine Keeler; his stepfather Dr. Clifford Earle Keeler and stepmother Agnes M Burrows; Uncle Walter E Burrows and Uncle Dr. William Burrows. Gordon will be remembered for the depth of his intellect, and the quiet dignity with which he lived his life. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. There will be a gathering in the spring of 2026 to celebrate his life. He is interred at Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois.

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