Obituary of Gordon William Ouse

It is with great sadness that Gordon's family announces his passing. Throughout all the years of less than optimum health, he retained his humor, and his love of life, family, music, basketball and friends. He was an avid follower of the political scene and gave his support to those causes that benefited the welfare of others. Gordon was a dedicated teacher. He taught five years prior to moving to Santa Cruz in 1961, and he then taught at Branciforte Junior High until his retirement in 1996. He taught history and English to countless 7th and 8th grade students but he was most proud of the school-within-a-school he created. He called it "Student Centered Curriculum" and the students in his program had to use all their intellectual and creative skills to meet his challenges. Gordon was a proud member and elder of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, heritage from his paternal grandmother. Gordon is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susanna; daughter Lisa Ouse Hicks and her husband, John, and their children Connor and Lena; and daughter Karen Ouse and her daughter Evalia. He is also survived by his brother Rodney and his wife Carolyn, his twin brother Jordon and his wife Rosemary, and his brother Duane and his wife Linda. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. We wish to thank Drs. Michael Alexander and Amy McMullen and the entire staff of Central Coast Oncology, and Drs. Joseph Palascak and Karen Harrington from PAMF for the outstanding care, kindness and friendship they gave Gordon. We would also like to acknowledge the staff at Dominican Hospital for his stellar treatment during his many stays there. There will be a memorial service celebrating Gordon's life on Saturday, Sept. 12th at 1:30 pm. It will be held at the Resurrection Parish Hall, 7600 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA. In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable contribution to your favorite local music group.