John Charles “Chuck” Jordan Obituary

John Charles “Chuck” Jordan, 88, of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, passed away on May 1, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 22, 1937, in Denver, Colorado.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, Chuck lived a life grounded in service, discipline, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.

He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps with the 3rd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, during the mid-1950s. His service took him across the Pacific and into multiple regions of Asia. He embarked from San Diego in October 1955 aboard the USS General J. C. Breckinridge, arriving in Yokohama, Japan, and continued operations throughout Japan and Okinawa. He later served with Battalion Landing Team 3/3, traveling extensively aboard naval vessels, including the USS Thuban.

During his deployments, Chuck served in British North Borneo, Pakistan, India, and Ceylon, as well as throughout Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Iwo Jima, and the Philippines. On January 15, 1957, while crossing the Equator at 105° 24′ 00″ East longitude, he earned the time-honored distinction of “Shellback.” He concluded his overseas service in July 1957, returning to the United States aboard the USS General Anderson and arriving in San Francisco.

Following his military service, Chuck married Gayle Lee Gibson, with whom he had three sons: Ronnie, Donald, and Scott.

Chuck went on to build a distinguished career in the woodworking industry. Through hard work, vision, and leadership, he owned and operated multiple international businesses, employing hundreds of people over the course of his career. He was known for his craftsmanship, entrepreneurial drive, and the opportunities he created for others both locally and abroad.

Chuck had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snow skiing, and was an accomplished golfer. This love ultimately brought him to Pagosa Springs, where he lived for the past 34 years. He especially loved serving as a guide, out backing hunters through the Wemminuche Wilderness and the San Juan Mountains—experiences that combined his love of the outdoors, adventure, and fellowship.

Chuck’s love for the outdoors was shared across decades of tradition with family and close friends. For more than 60 years, he spent time hunting throughout Idaho, California, Utah, and Colorado, often alongside his brother Donald, his son Donald, and his best friend, Mike Hall. These trips were among his proudest and happiest moments. He also enjoyed a memorable week-long fishing trip in Canada with his brother, a time filled with camaraderie and lasting memories.

Beyond the outdoors, Chuck valued time spent building and contributing alongside those close to him. Through his involvement with YMCA Indian Guides in California, he participated in activities such as camping, sailing, holiday events, and annual Memorial Day work projects at Camp Arbolado, where he helped build bunkbeds and support camp improvements. Whether working on home projects, building decks, or lending a hand wherever needed, he took pride in creating, teaching, and working side by side with others.

He was also deeply committed to his community. In Pagosa Springs, he volunteered with Veterans for Veterans and was a regular attendee of Pagosa Bible Church. Along with his friend Kenny Rodgers, he helped start an annual golf tournament that continues to raise thousands of dollars for veterans in need.

On April 29, 1989, Chuck married Judith “Judy” Jordan, with whom he shared many years of love and partnership.

Chuck was known for his steady presence, strong values, and quiet leadership. He instilled discipline and a strong work ethic in his children, leaving a lasting influence on their lives. He will be remembered as dependable, principled, and deeply devoted to his family.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Judith “Judy” Jordan; his sons, Ronnie, Donald, and Scott; his stepson, Richard; his brother, Dennis; as well as his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lauretta; his father, John; his brother, Donald; and his sister, Sherry.

He will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his family, his commitment to his community, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

A memorial service will be held at Pagosa Bible Church, 209 Harman Park Dr., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, on July 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with military honors to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans for Veterans in Pagosa Springs.

Semper Fidelis