In Loving Memory of Gordon Thomas Sjodin
February 10, 1941 - May 30, 2025

Gordon Thomas Sjodin, age 84, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love of his family and his faithful dog, Bear.

Born on February 10, 1941, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Raymond and Irene (Helstrom) Sjodin, Gordon was raised with strong values of faith, family, and hard work. He graduated from Redfield High School in 1959 and went on to live a life marked by vision, dedication, and compassion.

In 1965, Gordon enlisted in the Air National Guard, serving honorably as a Personnel Tech until 1971. That same year, he began building a legacy in business and broadcasting, becoming the owner of KFCB Radio Station in Redfield, South Dakota, and launching a successful publishing venture based in Aberdeen, the Dakota Printing and Publishing Company. His entrepreneurial drive led him to publish four weekly newspapers and a regional shoppers' guide that reached more than 40,000 homes.

Gordon's career took a transformative turn when he entered the world of Indian Gaming, where his leadership helped launch Million Dollar Mega Bingo and was key in protecting the rights of Native American tribes to operate Class Two gaming machines-laying the groundwork for today's tribal casinos. Later, with the Chickasaw Nation, he played a key role in expanding their gaming footprint, including the development of WinStar World Casino, the world's largest casino. Even in retirement, Gordon remained a trusted advisor, known not just for his vision, but for his humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the communities he served.

Gordon was previously married to Janice Ost and they raised two beautiful and loving children, Jill and John. In 1990, he married the love of his life, Marie Laura Beers. Together, they built a life full of laughter, adventure, and unwavering support. Gordon was never happier than when he was surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing stories, dancing to live music, or simply enjoying the warmth of family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

To know Gordon was to know a man of deep conviction, boundless energy, and a heart as big as the sky. Gordon was strong in his faith and was committed to the Catholic Church. As a proud 8-year cancer survivor, he greeted every day like a blessing. He had a gift for turning colleagues into lifelong friends and was known for his big heart, sharp mind, and unwavering loyalty. He loved to travel, dance, attend the theater, and listen to live music-but nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie Laura Beers-Sjodin; his brother Ron Sjodin and wife Karen; his daughter Jill Sjodin-Straight; and his stepsons Russel Beers (Laura Ostroff Beers), Wayne Beers (Michael Bobo), Craig Beers (Cheryl Bixler Beers), and Darren Beers. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren: Daniel Sjodin, Tiffany Sjodin Savelli, John Beers, Jenna Beers, Matthew Ostroff, Michael Ostroff, Melissa Ostroff Hall, Emily Beers, Drew Beers, Dylan Beers, and Madison Beers Ruiz; and 13 cherished great-grandchildren. He will also be missed by his loyal companion, Bear.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Irene Sjodin; his sister, Joanne (Sjodin) Gorsett; his son, John Sjodin; and his son-in-law, Kevin Straight.

In honoring Gordon's life, we remember a man who was hardworking, entrepreneurial, loyal, and loving-a man who put others before himself and left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

"A Chickasaw prayer says: 'May the Creator guide your spirit on the path of the wind, where the ancestors dance and the stars sing your name.'

Gordon's journey continues in the hearts of those he touched, and his legacy will live on for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to MD Anderson in Houston, Texas, at the following link: MD ANDERSON