Gordon Berton Hare

HARE — Gordon Berton, 88; born Aug. 14, 1930, Santa Barbara, Calif.; died Sept. 16, 2019, College Place, Wash. Surviving: son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Kimberley (Epp) Hare, Melbourne, Fla.; daughters and sons-in-law, Sherilyn (Hare) and Reginald Jones, Spokane, Wash.; Patsy (Hare) and Jackie Vazquez, Pasco, Wash.; Nancy (Hare) and James Nestler, Walla Walla, Wash.; 5 grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

Dr. Gordon B. Hare passed away quietly in his sleep on Sept. 16, 2019. He taught mathematics at Walla Walla University for 37 years. A long-time colleague wrote: "I was inspired by the concern that Dr. Hare showed for students, the fairness with which he dealt with students, and the grace with which he gave his lectures … Hare, more than any other person, is responsible for building the mathematics program at WWC into the strong program that it is today." He loved teaching and cared deeply for his students, many of whom remained friends for life. He was also a sponsor of the International Club and provided free housing for several foreign students who attended the University.

Gordon came from a long line of Adventist Pioneers. His grandfather and grandmother helped establish Avondale College in Australia, and the beloved Eric B. Hare was his father's cousin. He was very active himself in church activities, leading out in various sabbath school classes and singing in the church choir.

In retirement, he volunteered at the Fort Walla Walla Museum and continued his love of music, playing his violin in the Old Time Fiddlers and several other local groups.

His family will always remember his loving commitment, steadfast support, selfless generosity, and his enthusiastic, adventuresome approach to life.