Gordon D. "Gordy" Shogren Jr.

Gordon D. “Gordy” Shogren, Jr., 52, of Fox Lake, IL, formerly of Zion and Winthrop Harbor, IL, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital, Milwaukee, WI. He passed away peacefully with his family surrounding him. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, as well as a kind and loyal friend.

Gordy was born on March 28, 1973, in Waukegan, IL, and attended Grace Missionary Church in Zion, IL, as a child, then Crossway Community Church in Bristol, WI. He worked at Abbott Laboratories, receiving a promotion in July. Gordy was honored to carry on his father’s legacy as a business owner and entrepreneur. He and childhood friend Steve Hollister co-owned State Line Storage in Winthrop Harbor, IL, and Cenni Tile and Carpet, Inc. in Zion, IL. Gordy loved golfing. He worked at the Zion Park District, specifically Shiloh and Shepherd’s Crook Golf Courses, for many years, and as a Golf Pro at Windyke Country Club in Memphis, TN. Gordy attended Taylor University, Mississippi State University, Christian Brothers University, and Zion-Benton Township High School. Gordy learned to play cribbage with his stepfather, William “Bill” Harju. He loved to collect cribbage boards and play a quick game with anyone who was ready to take on the challenge, particularly his son, Carter. Gordy looked forward to a competitive game of Monopoly, especially with his cousin, David Thomas. He was an avid bowler and enjoyed playing disc golf and tennis with his kids. Gordy relished watching his kids' creativity in the kitchen as Carter and Avery competitively cooked meals using the same few ingredients. He often quoted his favorite movies, trying to impart a thought to ponder. Gordy cherished his wife, children, extended family, and friends, caring for them deeply. He lit up a room with his smile and quick-witted responses. He cheered his loved ones on and celebrated their successes. He did not know a stranger and would give the shirt off his back for someone in need. He had a way of bringing people together even in the most difficult circumstances.

Gordy battled diabetes for 33 years. He was the recipient of a double organ transplant in January 2017. The Lord provided the perfect donor. He never took for granted the miraculous gift he received.

Survivors include his wife, Lauren Shogren of Fox Lake, IL; children, Carter and Avery Shogren of Winthrop Harbor, IL, Abby (Elijah) Goodwin of Fox Lake, IL, and Faith and Lily Sobyra, and Caleb Chrzanowski of Fox Lake, IL; mother, Kathleen Harju of Zion, IL; sisters, Christine (Jon-Mark) Bolz-Hott of Camdenton, MO, Jeni Fera of Raymond, WI, and Anessa Kaul of Phoenix, AZ; many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Gordy was preceded in death by his father, Gordon Shogren Sr. of Pleasant Prairie, WI; stepfather, William Harju of Zion, IL; grandparents, Olga and Eskil Shogren of Bessemer, MI, and Caroline and Raymond Diehl of Gurnee, IL.

A morning Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Johnny’s Pour House, 10936 Sheridan Rd., Pleasant Prairie, WI.

An afternoon memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Grace Missionary Church, 1415 27th St. in Zion, IL, with Pastors Brandon Smith and Doug Carlson officiating. Friends may greet the family on Saturday from 2:30 p.m. until the time of the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donate in Gordy’s honor to Donate Life American (https://www.classy.org/fundraiser/6586418).