Charles Gordon "Flash" McDonald, age 83, passed away on July 29, 2026, in Salem, Oregon.

Gordon was born on May 8, 1943, in McMinnville, Oregon, to Edgar Harold McDonald and Evelyn Irene Heizelmann McDonald. He was raised on the family turkey and livestock farm, Teasel Creek Ranch, south of Molalla, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from Molalla Union High School in 1961. During high school, he discovered a lifelong love of reading and photography, serving as the school photographer for sporting events and the annual yearbook.

On May 8, 1977, Gordon married the love of his life, Colleen Lynn McDonald, in Scotts Mills, Oregon. They shared many happy years together, enjoying travel in their RV and building a life centered on family, hard work, and the outdoors. Following Colleen's passing on June 9, 2021, Gordon continued to cherish their memories while maintaining close relationships with his family.

Gordon proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966. Stationed primarily at Klamath Falls, Oregon, he served in the Motor Vehicle Division and was honorably discharged. His military service was a source of lasting pride throughout his life.

After his military service, Gordon found his life's work behind the wheel of a truck. He spent 45 years driving commercial and log trucks for Vanderbeck Logging, earning the nickname "Flash" and the respect of everyone who knew him. He often joked that during his remarkable career he had driven enough miles to travel to the moon and back four times, all while maintaining a clean driving record.

An avid outdoorsman, Gordon loved hunting and fishing from an early age, carrying on traditions shared with his father and uncles. Family and friends appreciated the venison and fresh fish he so often brought home. He also enjoyed traveling, especially RV adventures with Colleen and later annual trips to Arizona to visit his sisters. His final journey to Arizona in May 2026 was to help his sister Jill relocate to Oregon.

Gordon was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Colleen Lynn McDonald; his parents, Edgar Harold McDonald and Evelyn Irene Heizelmann McDonald; and numerous aunts and uncles. He is survived by his sisters, Sherie Jane McDonald Star and Lynda Jill McDonald Beste, along with extended family and many friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, dependability, and quiet sense of humor.

Gordon will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, beside his beloved wife, Colleen.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Vanderbeck Valley Farms. Service details will be announced by the family.