San Rafael

It is with profound sadness and enduring love that we announce the passing of Gordon Joseph Shifs, a proud native San Franciscan, who died peacefully on May 28, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 77 years old.

Born in San Francisco on April 21, 1948, Gordon was the cherished son of Harry and Theda Shifs and brother to Frances Shifs, all of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Theresa (née Osborne), and three daughters, Rachael (Brian) Clausen, Nikki (Bill) Owens, and Hanna Shifs. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Connor (Emily) Clausen and Tyler (Cassie) Owens, and a treasured brother-in-law and great friend to Robert Osborne.

A graduate of Lowell High School, Gordon was known for his keen intellect, quick wit, and tireless work ethic. He was the proud owner of Gordon’s Sporting Goods in San Francisco’s Richmond district throughout the 1970s and 1980s, a time when fitness and recreational sports were gaining national popularity. Gordon hired countless young people from Washington High School, offering them not only jobs but also guidance and a place to learn about their own potential.

At the young age of 40, he retired to focus on what mattered most to him —spending time with family and friends, traveling to his favorite spots in Hawaii and Lake Tahoe, and enjoying life on his own terms.

Never one to sit still for long and true to his entrepreneurial spirit, Gordon returned to business after nearly a decade of retirement, purchasing Berkeley Sports near the U.C. Berkeley campus. There he continued his commitment to helping others by hiring dozens of Cal students, sharing his knowledge, and giving them valuable real-world experience that extended beyond textbook learning. Gordon eventually retired for good in 2010 – though in “retirement” he never really slowed down.

Gordon was a man of many passions. He found joy in boating, fishing, and skiing, and had a lifelong passion for working on cars —especially his 1955 Lancia B20 GT that he raced at Sears Point Raceway and his cherished 1987 Chevy El Camino that he affectionately referred to as “my old man truck.” He had a sharp eye and steady hand, capable of fixing, building, or making just about anything. Whether rewiring a light fixture, rebuilding a car engine, or building an addition on the house, Gordon took great pride in his craftsmanship and found real satisfaction in tackling challenging projects.

Gordon loved all kinds of music, especially Motown and old-school country, often driving around to songs by the Commodores, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Hank Sr., or Merle Haggard. He was an avid gambler, known for his luck and skill at blackjack and craps. He savored the occasional shot of Jameson or Glenlivet and was the only person we knew who confidently did Sudoku puzzles in pen.

More than anything, Gordon was known for his extreme generosity, fierce loyalty, unwavering support, and the unconditional love he gave to those around him. He offered honest, thoughtful, and timeless advice. Some of our favorites include: “Measure twice, cut once.” “Never put less than 20% down, refinance to a 15-year loan when you can, and pay off your house – you’ll never be homeless.” “If you buy a used car, you’re buying someone else’s problems.” “In blackjack, contrary to popular opinion, the object of the game is to stay in the game.” And “We bend so we don’t break.”

Gordon always looked out for others, and his strength inspired confidence in everyone around him. Of all his roles, none brought Gordon more joy than being “Dad” to his girls.

Gordon’s legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone who knew him – in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the example of strength, humility and generosity he showed every day. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Services will be private at his request.