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Gordon Earl Budke

  • jen6182
  • 22 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Gordon Earl BudkeOctober 20, 1941 – January 24, 2026


Gordon Earl Budke, respected business leader, devoted family man, and proud member of the Spokane community, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, at the age of 84.

 

Gordon was born on October 20, 1941, in Aberdeen, WA to Clarence and Viola Budke. He grew up in Dayton, WA with his two brothers - Richard of LeSueur, MN and was preceded in death by Roger of Portland, OR. Gordon built a life defined by leadership, integrity, and service, both as a CPA with Coopers and Lybrand and through his deep commitment to civic involvement. Gordon leaves a legacy which will continue to inspire future generations.

 

Gordon was a founding member of the Momentum Executive Committee, the Downtown Spokane Partnership, the EWU Foundation, and many other notable civic institutions. In recognition of his influence and contributions, Gordon was named a Spokane Journal of Business Icon in 2022, received the EWU Lifetime Achievement Award, was inducted into the Spokane Citizen Hall of Fame in 2015, and honored with the Leadership Spokane King Cole Luminary Award. Gordon served on numerous boards, including the Board of Trustees at Eastern Washington University, Yoke’s Fresh Market, Banner Bank and Junior Achievement.

 

Above all else, Gordon cherished his family. He met the love of his life, Rhoda Paulson at Eastern Washington State College. The two were married for 64 years. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. He is survived by his wife Rhoda; his sons, David (Tanya, children Blake and Alexa), Jeffrey (Janet, children Anna and Nathan), and Matthew (Beth) who brought him immense pride and joy.

 

Gordon found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed golfing with friends, was a passionate gardener (especially proud of his beans and squash) and traveled with Rhoda all over the world.

 

Gordon will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, humor, and the genuine care he showed to everyone around him.

 

In lieu of flowers, consider getting involved in your community with the charity of your choice as Gordon frequently did.


A celebration of Gordon’s life will be planned at a later date.


 
 
 

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