Mae I. Gordon

Mae I. Gordon, 94, Grand Forks, ND, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024 in Altru Hospital of Grand Forks.

Mae Irene Merrill was born May 13, 1929 in Fisher, MN, the daughter of Ira and Ann (Galler) Merrill. She was raised and educated in Roseau, MN and East Grand Forks, MN where she graduated from high school. Mae worked at the Minnesota National Bank.

Mae married Ray Gordon on July 11, 1948 in Grand Forks. They were married nearly 75 years and were once named as North Dakota’s longest married couple.

Mae and Ray founded and operated the 1-29 Restaurant in Hillsboro, ND for 13 years. They also owned and operated the Paddlewheel Restaurant in Hillsboro. The couple purchased the first Mexican eatery in Grand Forks, the still popular Mexican Village. Mae continued to work there after they sold the business in 2006.

It is common for her to be recognized in public by former customers and not uncommon to receive a hug. Mae mentored many young employees and several turned into lifetime relationships. 

Mae was referred to as a professional volunteer. She was very active in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, PTA, Meals on Wheels and other programs. She volunteered in numerous capacities at United Lutheran Church, often serving Wednesday evening meals and mentoring confirmation students.

Her witty sense of humor, engaging conversations and her unconditional love for family and friends will be greatly missed

 Survivors include her children, Jana (Jerry) Kyser, Paula (David) Escher, David (Amy) Gordon, Dan (Vicki) Gordon, 15 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Barbara O’Brien 

Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Ray; and her parents, Ira and Ann Merrill.

Memorial services will be 10:30 AM Saturday, May 11, 2024 at United Lutheran Church, 324 Chestnut St., Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the church. Burial will be in Memorial Park South of Grand Forks. Arrangements are with Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks.

Memorials should be directed to United Lutheran Church in her honor.