An only child, Gordon M. Tracy, was born in Anaconda to John Henry “Hoot” and Agnes (Gergurich) Tracy – he passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve in his hometown. He is survived by his lifelong friend and wife of 65 years, Loretta (Frazer), son, Michael (Joan) and grandchildren, Jessica Hanson (Jake), Dr. Lauren Daly (Michael), and Dr. Margaret Tracy. Gordon was a proud great grandfather, albeit happy to return them to their parents, of Carter, Bridger, Ashley Hanson, and Ava Daly. His greatest loss was the accidental death of his second son Ronald (20) while serving in the US Army in 1979, and the death of his youngest child Barbara Vincent (55) in 2017.
Gordon believed he was one of the final 4 survivors of his Anaconda Central High Class of 1954. Gordon began his working life as a machinist for the ACM before job opportunities and the pursuit of his military training moved his family around the country. Returning to Butte in 1968, Gordon worked in insurance sales, and security at both MT State Prison and MT Tech. Gordon joined the Army National Guard in 1955, and as a young soldier participated in quelling the 1959 State Prison riot that involved gunfire and a bazooka round to restore peace. His lifelong passion for flying moved him into the officer ranks where he flew both fixed wing airplanes like the O-1 Bird Dog and helicopters ranging from the Korea-era H-13 Sioux, through Hueys (Iroquois) and the OH-58 Kiowa. While retiring after 42 years of service as a Lieutenant Colonel and a Master Aviator, his most fulfilling position was that of Commander, Troop N (Air), 163rd ACR in Helena.
In his later years Gordon enjoyed living at Georgetown Lake and Anaconda surrounded with family and friends, especially Loretta’s sister Sandy and her husband Tony Puccinelli. Gordon could be counted on for “Friday Breakfasts” with friends and would often strike up conversations with old pals and gents wearing prior service caps. His penchant for talking would often tax Loretta’s patience. Needless to say, he had a lot of friends.
The family would like to thank the staff at The Community Hospital of Anaconda. While his stay there was brief, it was also intense. Their care of Gordon and the compassion to us all was extraordinary and beyond our expectations.
Family and friends are invited to a Funeral Mass organized privately by the family at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 401 Alder St., in Anaconda, followed by Rite of Committal with Military honors at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Anaconda. A reception will follow at VFW Lodge 1876, 500 E. 4th St. in Anaconda.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Gordon. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Gordon and his family.
Service Schedule
Funeral Mass
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday January 11, 2022
St. Peter's Catholic Church
401 Alder St.
Anaconda, Montana 59711
Rite of Committal
Following Service
Tuesday January 11, 2022
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Anaconda, Montana 59711
Reception
Following Rite of Committal
Tuesday January 11, 2022
VFW Lodge 1876
500 E. 4th St.
Anaconda, Montana 59711
Service Schedule
Funeral Mass
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday January 11, 2022
St. Peter's Catholic Church
401 Alder St.
Anaconda, Montana 59711
Rite of Committal
Following Service
Tuesday January 11, 2022
Mount Olivet Cemetery
Anaconda, Montana 59711
Reception
Following Rite of Committal
Tuesday January 11, 2022
VFW Lodge 1876
500 E. 4th St.
Anaconda, Montana 59711
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Bill Willing says
What a huge loss to the Guard family. Gordon was a dynamic leader & great friend to all. Deepest condolences to Loretta, Mike & all the Tracey family. Bill Willing
Dick Shockley says
Gordon was a dedicated aviator, guardsmen, and Montanan to his very core. He was the most interesting, intellectual, and funniest guys ever! Anaconda will feel a deep void at this loss.
Rest in peace, Gordon Tracy.
Dave Williamson says
Lt Col Tracy was my first National Guard Commander. He had a great influence on many soldiers and airmen of the Montana Army National Guard. Gordon was a very compassionate and gentle giant among the troops. It was a pleasure serving with such a distinguished man. Rest in peace, Sir.
JAMES GRAMCKOW says
Both Gordon and Loretta were my second parents growing up. Spending time at Georgetown lake with my best
friend Michael are my best memories growing up. The truth is I spent as much time with the Tracy’s as I did at home.
I will surely miss Gordon for he was a mentor and father figure to me. My deepest condolences to Loretta, Michael
and the Tracy family.
Stan Putnam says
Gordon was a Great Leader, an Outstanding Aviator, and a True Friend. He made a huge impact on so many Soldiers who crossed his path, including me. We have lost a true Patriot, a Great Leader, and a Real Friend. Our Condolences to Loretta, Mike, and the whole Tracy Family. Great Job reaching out and helping people throughout your life Gordon. You have impacted countless lives for the better. May You Now Rest In Peace, My Friend.
keith ingram says
Keith Ingram says
Having met Gordon over 30+ years ago and enjoyed riding poker runs ,Seattle Seahawk game in Seatle and a party or 3 at their beautiful lake home. Hearing some of his flying adventures and their kidness and helping hands that were always there. The last time we ran into each other they said they had moved from the lake and were living in town and the invite to “Come On Over” rang rang loudly. Our condolences to the family on his passing and will try to “come On Over ” for the service .
Jerry Ostrem says
Loretta am so sorry to learn about Gordon’s passing, he will be missed but never forgotten. He was a good friend and mentor. we had some very interesting times when he was the commander of Troop N (Air).
Noreen Lacey says
I so remember the antics that Gordie and Bob (Rughead)would get into. My prayers go out to you and yours Loretta.
I was told when Bob passed “You won’t get over it you’ll learn to live with it”. After 40years I’m still learning
Love and prayers.
Noreen Mertzig lacey
Vicki. Joronen says
My condolences to Loretta and Family. Gordon was such a kind gentle person. Love and prayers for you all 🙏
Dave Boyd says
God bless you all during this difficult time. Gordon was a great man and a good friend. I used to love listening to his stories when he would drop in to visit me at the “Mint Bar” in Butte.
Veralee says
I have fond memories of many years of friendship with the Tracy family. I spent countless hours with Barbara at their home and at the lake while growing up. We always laughed at my thinking Barb didn’t have a dad for the first few years of them living across the street from us as Gordon was not home to often. He was one of the finest men I have ever known. He was always so good to us as kids, letting us ride his sno cats or driving one of his many vehicles. My thoughts are with Ratso, Mike and their family. I will miss you but I am happy that you have been reunited with Ronnie and Barb.
Your other daughter, Veralee.
Joe Dz says
First time I saw Gordon was at Georgetown lake winning a motorboat race, also remember seeing Gordon and Loretta at the brown derby on New Year’s Eve many years back. Sincere condolences to all. Rest In Peace Gordon.
Joe Dziak says
Rest In Peace Gordon
Elena Nelson says
My sincerest condolences for the the loss of Gordon. I met Gordon when he came to the hospital. He was the sweetest kindest man. I told him he reminded me of Frosty the Snowman. He had a good laugh. With Love, Elena Nelson (CHA Lab)
Cathy E Redfern says
Loretta, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Gordon will be remembered in all the stories that are told and retold. I hope these stories will bring peace and solace.
Ralph Villa says
Your going to be missed Gordon. Loretta our condolences go out to you and your family..I’m going to miss our talks at Donivans. Rest In Peace. Mary and Ralph Villa
Larry Krizan says
Our sincere condolences to Loretta and the family. Gordon was quite the accomplished individual, so he’ll be remembered for much,
Larry and Jayne Krizan