Gordon Arthur 'Ernie' Duham

Posted

(Mar. 5, 2010)

Gordon Arthur “Ernie” Durham died on March 5, 2010, in Billings.

He was born on Jan. 11, 1951, to Arthur “Bud” Durham and Virginia Durham in Williston, N.D.

He spent most of his youth in Powell, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and pursuing a level of mischief that would make for many stories for his children to hear from his brothers and friends while he looked on in mock disapproval.

Shortly after graduating from Powell High School in 1969, Gordon moved to Billings, where he began a 37-year career with Pierce Flooring. He married the love of his life, Lynn Palagi, in 1973. Their two children, Derek and Blair, were born in 1979 and 1981. Gordon was a patient, understanding and devoted father.

He was an avid Colorado Rockies baseball fan, John Wayne movie historian, trivia expert, used car buyer and keeper of the world's greatest mustache. He enjoyed annual pilgrimages to Denver to personally oversee the baseball team which he spent so much of his time lovingly deriding. He would invariably bring one or more members of his family, which produced many fond memories, as well as creating the side effect of making his wife and children unable to hear “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” without crying.

Gordon was personable, funny, compassionate and stubborn. He was also a cellist, a swimmer, a former Minor League Baseball player and an animal lover.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nancy.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn; daughter Blair; son Derek; brothers Brian Durham (Pat) and Terry Durham; and many nieces, a nephew and friends.

Funeral services will be held at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary at 1001 Alderson Ave. in Billings on Tuesday, March 9 at 3 p.m. An additional celebration of Gordon's life will be held at the Red Stag Pub in from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 13.

The family suggest donations in Gordon's name be made to the Billings Clinic Foundation, P.O. Box 31031, Billings, MT 59107.

Remembrances may be shared with the family at www.michelottisawyers.com

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