My husband TJ connected me to Gordon - he knows him from lacrosse (he's a coach at Roswell and worked with Gordon many times).  He thought I would like to connect with Gordon because we had something big in common - we are both mental health advocates.  

Our son came to us in 2015 to tell us he had been struggling with depression (we later learned he first noticed it when he was 9 - we had no idea).  As we went on this journey as a family, it became clear that there is still a lot of shame and stigma around discussing mental health and it keeps people suffering alone in silence. So my son and I became vocal advocates - doing events for corporations where we share our story very openly and answer people's questions (because of COVID, these have all been virtual).  It's been amazing - and I started following Gordon and his story and was cheering him on.  

So, when I thought I was going to do an in-person event, I reached out to Gordon for some of his expert tips.  We spoke on a weekend when he was driving to see his fiancé - we talked for quite a while.  I'm sure this won't surprise those who knew him better than me - he was selfless and generous with his time and his insights.  He answered all my questions and offered any additional help I needed - we even talked about how we might team up on something down the road.  He was rooting for me too - we both want to help others who are struggling and to bring light and attention to mental health and mental health issues.  

Thank you Caitlin, for your honest writing about Gordon.  When my husband told me what happened, I'll never forget his words "Gordon lost his battle with depression - it's a hideous disease."  I knew exactly what he was saying but really appreciated the phrasing - just like we hear about someone "losing their battle with cancer" or another physical ailment, there is no shame or blame.  The person fought hard and may have lost the battle but there is such honor in the fight they put up and the strength it took to get as far as they did.  

We will definitely be making a contribution - I will be using some of the funds from the events I've done - I think Gordon would really like that.  The gift of his life will keep giving and helping others - his impact will go on.

Dear Lou, Mary Jo & Caitlyn,

First of all Caitlyn, what a beautiful tribute. You are a wonderful writer, just like your brother.

I don't think you remember be, but, Gordon and I were good friends for many years. He was such a brilliant, kind and genuine person. Lou and Mary Jo, you raised an amazing son. I can tell you were very proud of him. 

Some of my favorite memories with Gordon were the times spent in the kitchen, cooking something from scratch together. He definitely learned from the best :-)

It is heartbreaking Gordon left this world too soon. Depression is a cruel disease, but I know he fought with such determination. It warms my soul to know his vulnerability and purposeful work through Mental Agility inspired so-so many and his legacy will live on.

May God fill your hearts with peace, and give you all the strength during this time.

-Sarah

Heartbroken after discovering that my dear friend from adolescence and first love has tragically died. Gordon was my first real boyfriend and I have so many fond memories of that season of my life with him. We shared so many laughs, fun times, dates and school dances. He was a kind soul and a faithful friend. He set a very high bar for future boyfriends. One of my favorite clothing pieces was his lacrosse jacket he gave me. I think I even slept in it. 💕

The world is truly at a loss for losing such a wonderful soul. His family and loved ones are being held so tightly in my heart today. Truly heartbroken. I’m so thankful for the impact he made on my life and how sweet he made my early teen years.

Sending Mary Jo, Lou, Caitlin and Lisa so much love and prayers. 

As a Pace alum (‘97), I received notice of Gordon’s passing. Not knowing who he was, I came across his obituary and am so very moved. Both in learning about  Gordon, and in having the distinct sense that he would love every part of the obituary, as well. Sending much love to your family now and onwards. 

Eleanor Seigler

Dear Lou, MJ, and Caitlin, and extended family,

We’ve been praying 🙏 for Gordon’s soul to be saved and for him to enter heaven with “peace”, side by side with your mom and dad. We to are praying for you, MJ, and Caitlin, and all of your relatives.

There are no words to express how much we all are hurting and how so very much we will miss Gordon. He was one of the bravest men I’ve known, his tireless fight to battle his disease, and for how he stood tall in from of countless people, letting them all know mental health is a very serious issue and why talking about it mattered in this F’d up world we live in! He’s will always be remembered with the greatest bravery, humor, kindness, caring, and love ❤️

It was my great honor being his Godfather, I took this role on seriously and will always cherish the many, many countless hours we spoke and or FaceTimed. I will always love Gordon, we will NEVER FORGET HIM, nor the way he lived and faced up to his disease with courage, and how he gave of himself to others selflessly, like a saint, and even like Jesus himself, while on this earth.

We are  here for you and your family, please let me know how Margo & I can help in anyway!

Much love,

Roger & Margo & family 

Dear Lou, Mary Jo, Caitlin, and Lisa,

From our family to yours - we send our prayers and love. Gordon was an amazing person who accomplished so much. From the early days when you and Mary Jo were the mother and father of lacrosse in Georgia, and our kids were playing in fall leagues and becoming youth officials, and then following your Facebook stories and Gordon's in college and after. During all that time - everything about Gordon stands out; what he accomplished, his integrity, how he excelled, and his strength and courage. And with his love for so many and passion for giving, his legacy continues.

Our thoughts are with you all.

xo June Hayford and family

Dear Louie, Mary Jo and Caitlyn,

So sorry to hear about your loss.  Our prayers and sympathy are with you at this difficult time. 

Sincerely,

Joe and Mary Vullo

Dear Louie, Mary Jo & Caitlyn,

Your sorrow is so deeply heartfelt. Please except our sincerest sympathies for the loss of your beloved son & brother, Gordon. 💔

…Depression & anxiety may appear to have extinguished Gordon’s light, but clearly, the the brilliance of his light continues to shine. Your love for Gordon & your openness about mental illness,  validates his struggles & the valiant fight he fought.

How beautiful that Gordon's Foundation will continue to provide much needed attention and help,  to the many who suffer from this insidious illness.

I can't help but think Gordon's legacy allows us of all to taste a bit of divine love here on earth.

Rest in Peace Gordon! ❤️🙏🏻❤️

What an incredibly beautiful and poignant tribute. Despite his struggles, Gordon’s was a life well lived. We send our heartfelt prayers and condolences to your family. 

With love from the Falcon family 

 There is nothing I can say that can ease the pain of Gordon's passing but I hope this quote brings you comfort. 

 Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, and you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. 

 Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. 

Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone.
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together. 

 Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. 

Let it be spoken without an effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it.

Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity. 

What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just round the corner. 

 All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost. 

One brief moment and all will be as it was before. How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!

Dear Corsetti Family,

Please accept my prayers and condolences at this awful time . May Gordon RIP.

I did not know Gordon Corsetti, but I did meet Lou Corsetti as he helped me promote lacrosse on the Outer Banks.  That was a beautiful obituary from a loving sister and I admire your love and courage.  

Please accept my condolences.

Best wishes, 

John Van Lunen