*Gordon Luverne Albertson, 100, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Nov. 29, 2014 at Edgewater in West Des Moines, Iowa. His passing was one year to the day after his wife Peggy’s death in 2013. Gordon’s gracious manner and deep caring for others endeared him to those around him. He embraced life with compassion and generosity. Gordon was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a true gentleman with unending support and sharing the wonders of life.

Gordon was born July 10, 1914 in Glendive, Mont. to John and Lily Westby Albertson. He was their only child. Their family moved to Watertown, S.D., where they owned and operated Albertson Grocery until his father retired. Gordon graduated from St. Olaf College in 1936 and joined the Army in 1942. He served with the 92nd Mortar Battalion throughout Western Europe until the end of the war, and returned in 1945.

Gordon and Peggy Niles were married Nov. 27, 1946 and settled in Des Moines, where they raised their three children. Gordon was a pharmaceutical representative with Schering Corporation for 33 years until he retired in 1979. He was a longtime member with the American Legion, Medical Representatives of Iowa and St. Mark Lutheran Church. Gordon was devoted to his golf game with a weekly round.

He is survived by his children, Paulette Metts and husband Neal, Steve Albertson and wife Faith Hodkiewicz, and Kip Albertson and wife Debbie; grandchildren, Jessica Fortin and husband Mike, Nicole Metts, Ashley Schott and husband Andrew, and Kurt Albertson; and four great-grandchildren. Gordon was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Margaret “Peggy” Albertson.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to St. Mark Lutheran Church.