Master Sergeant Gordon Leroy "Gordie" Sherven Sr., U.S. Army, Retired, of Venice, Florida and formerly of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 11:02 a.m., while traveling near Immokalee, Florida. He was 83. A devoted patriot, proud veteran, and beloved family man, Gordie lived a life rooted in service—to his country, his fellow veterans, his community, and above all, his family.

Born on August 18, 1941, in Stanley, North Dakota, Gordie was the son of the late Arvid O. and Naomi O. (Berntson) Sherven. From a young age, Gordie displayed a sense of duty and personal discipline that would later define his life. Just 20 days after graduating high school in 1959, Gordie enlisted in the United States Army, setting in motion a remarkable military career that spanned more than two decades.

Throughout his 21 years and 3 months of active-duty service, Gordie served with honor and distinction in Korea, Alaska, and across the continental United States. He rose to the rank of Master Sergeant, a testament to his unwavering leadership, discipline, and selfless commitment to others. His postings included Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Sill, Fort Carson, and Fort Bliss. As a highly respected recruiter and mentor, he shaped the futures of countless young soldiers, instilling in them the values of courage, integrity, and service.

He was a proud graduate of several elite military programs, including the Non-Commissioned Officer's Academy at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Gordie earned honor graduate distinctions from both the U.S. Army Recruiting School and the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer's School at Fort Benjamin Harrison. Ever a student of leadership, he also earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business in 1975 through the Army's degree completion program at Marion College.

Master Sergeant Sherven was honorably discharged in 1981, but his spirit of service never waned. Following his military retirement, he transitioned to civilian life with the same commitment and tireless work ethic, contributing another 27 years of service to Pan-American Screw in Elkhart. In 2011, Gordie settled in Venice, Florida, where his devotion to fellow veterans and his community continued unabated.

Gordie's post-military service was nothing short of inspiring. He held leadership roles in several veterans' organizations, including serving as Past Governor of Goshen Moose Lodge #836, Assistant Commander of Elkhart DAV Chapter 19, Chaplain of VFW Post 8118 in Venice, Chaplain for VFW District 10 in Florida, and Chaplain for DAV Chapter 101 in Nokomis. These roles were more than titles—they were expressions of his enduring commitment to brotherhood, remembrance, and advocacy for those who served.

He was instrumental in organizing Elkhart's annual Memorial Day Parade and was a regular presence at local veteran events, speaking engagements, and community ceremonies—always standing as a visible and vocal reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation.

Despite his many accolades and accomplishments, Gordie remained a humble, family-centered man. He cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always making time for his loved ones and creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts.

He is survived by his devoted children, Gordon (Tamara) Sherven Jr. of Bristol, Indiana, and Marilyn (Brian) VanHarlingen of Torrance, California; his loving grandchildren Haleigh (Kevin), Justin, Allison, and Andrew; and four beloved great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Howard Sherven of Arizona; sisters Arlene (Laddie) Buresh of New Port Richey, Florida, and Wanda (Bob) Jaeb of Arizona; along with a host of step-family members, extended relatives, dear friends, and fellow veterans who will feel the absence of his steady presence and generous spirit.

Visitation will be held at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkhart on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 2–4 p.m. and again from 6–8 p.m., as well as one hour prior to the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025. Pastor Jeremy Sarber will officiate. Full military honors will be rendered by the U.S. Army Funeral Honor Guard in coordination with the Elkhart County Veterans Funeral Honor Guard. A solemn and dignified flag line will be provided by the Northern Indiana Chapter of the Indiana Patriot Guard Riders—an honor befitting a man who gave so much of himself to preserve the freedoms we hold dear.

In accordance with Gordie's wishes, cremation will follow his services. He will be laid to eternal rest in the veterans' section of Prairie Street Cemetery at a later date, surrounded by those who, like him, answered the call of duty.

Memorial donations in Master Sergeant Sherven's honor may be directed to any veterans' organization or charity of the donor's choice. Let his legacy be a guiding light to future generations—a man who lived by example, who gave without hesitation, and who served with distinction.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."