Gordon graduated from Benson High School and then joined the Navy in 1945 and served during the remainder of the World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946.
Gordon was raised by his mother, Tillie, after the passing of his father, Sam Malafouris, in 1928. He idolized his mother and cared deeply for his bothers John and Dannie and sister Frances.
After WWII, Gordon moved to New York where he studied theatre arts & humanities at Columbia University, while performing in several Broadway shows. Gordon went on to choreograph many stage plays and performed with Judy Garland. His most enjoyable memory was conducting an orchestra on the waterfront for 3,000 people.
Gordon returned to Portland in 1955. He opened his first ‘Gordon’s Fireplace Shop’ in Lloyd Center in 1960 and then moved to 33rd and Broadway, the home of Gordon’s Fireplace & Home Furnishing Store. After 61 years, Gordon retired in 2016.
Gordon had a passion for entertaining family and friends. He was naturally humble and hospitable, and always made sure you were entertained and well fed.
Gordon is survived by his brother Dannie Malafouris, nieces and nephews, great nieces, nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by: father, Sam Malafouris - 1928; mother, Tillie Malafouris - 1993; sister, Frances Heaton - 2011; brother, John Malafouris - 2014.
In lieu of flowers, we kindly request donations be made to an animal charity in your community.
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