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.
Mae was referred to as a professional volunteer. She was a leader for both Boy and Girl Scouts. She delivered for the Meals on Wheels program. She also volunteered in numerous capacities at United Lutheran Church, often serving Wednesday evening meals.
Survivors include her children, Jana (Jerry) Kyser, Paula (David) Escher, David (Amy) Gordon, Dan (Vicki) Gordon, 15 grandchildren and 30 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.