General Information

Full Name: Allen Gordon
Date of Death:  Saturday, February 23, 2019

Pompton Plains – Allen Gordon, a long-time resident of Fair Lawn and Ramsey, passed away peacefully after a short illness on February 23, 2019 at the age of 97.  He was born on June 9, 1921 and spent his early years in New York City. He graduated from the textile school of North Carolina State University in 1943, and shortly thereafter joined the U.S. Army Signal Corps and spent much of his World War II service operating a radio station in Hawaii.  His unit transmitted General MacArthur’s surrender terms to the Japanese high command.

Shortly after leaving the Army, he joined his family’s yarn manufacturing business, Morris Gordon Yarns, based in the historic district of Paterson.  Allen managed the company for nearly 50 years, until he retired in 1991. Morris Gordon Yarns was a leading manufacturer of decorative yarns used in home furnishings and high-end garments, and Allen was known throughout the industry for his technical prowess and integrity.

Upon his arrival at Morris Gordon, Allen met his father’s secretary, Lillian Marlowe, was smitten and the two married in 1947.  They moved to Fair Lawn that year and lived in the community for more than three decades. There, they raised their only child, Bob Gordon, who would eventually serve as Fair Lawn’s Mayor, State Assemblyman and State Senator.  Bob was recently appointed by Governor Murphy to serve as State Commissioner of Public Utilities.

In 1978, Allen and Lillian bought a home at the Ramsey Golf and Country Club, where Allen pursued his love of golf.  He was also an avid outdoorsman, and particularly enjoyed hiking and kayaking. He built several kayaks by hand, a skill he learned during his Army days in Hawaii.  Allen and Lillian remained married for 70 years, until Lillian’s death in 2007.

Allen is survived by his son Bob, his daughter-in-law Gail Gordon and his friend and companion of recent years, Mimi Allen.  Funeral services are scheduled for 12:30 PM on Tuesday, February 26 at Louis Suburban Chapel, 13-01 Broadway (Route 4 East) in Fair Lawn.  Friends and family are encouraged to gather after the service for refreshments at the Railyard Grill, 14-26 Plaza Road North, Fair Lawn.