My first real interaction with Gordon was on the lacrosse field. I didn't really know what to make of his level of intensity, but I quickly learned that along with that intensity came a lot of other things. He was caring and sincere (in a way that very few 21st century teenagers are), and unflinchingly honest. The following year I had the great pleasure of teaching him. In class I got to see Gordon's sense of humor and willingness to have fun...while still maintaining his focused and wholehearted approach to everything he did. Several years later, I ran into Gordon in Philadelphia. It was wonderful to get to catch up with him and hear about his work as a referee, and teacher of referees. It was clear that he loved it, and him doing that job...made just about as much sense as anything I've ever heard. He referred to that career as a calling, and I know he was a great official.

Tonight I'm thinking about the Gordon memories that bring a smile to my face. The one time I ever saw him take a hard hit in a lacrosse game - it was right near the bench, he popped right up and said to the opposing coach, "that WAS a good hit," and stepped off the field; the in-class banter between him and Lauren Falohun; the time Coach Gannon told everyone to walk around school all day squatting low to develop leg strength to defend...of course Gordon did it - all day long; and the joy he exuded when I saw him in Philly.

What a guy, son, brother, ref, coach, leader, example and friend you we’re Gordon! Respected across the board by all.  I’ll cherish our days playing, reffing and coaching together. Even your scowl at my smart comments and banter. 

You showed a lot of people true leadership through your passions and character. Fly high. 

Gordon, my friend, I shall miss you!  

One of my favorite memories was when I got to officiate the 2014 6A Georgia State lacrosse championship game, Lambert v. Roswell, with Gordon and Ryan Rowe.  At some point in the game, I was the lead official, Ryan was single and Gordon was trail.  A Roswell player took a shot.  As the lead, I started tracking the ball and realized the shot went wide of the goal.  As I turned to sprint to the end line to make the out-of-bounds call, out of the corner of my eye I saw the shooter get slashed (hard) in his helmet.  I also heard the distinctive "crack" that a lacrosse stick makes when it contacts a helmet.  There's no way I could make the end-line call and throw a flag on what everyone in the stadium would think was a penalty that occurred right in front of me and wonder, "Why didn't that ref throw his flag?".  But, there were two other guys on the field that knew precisely this was not my call to make.  I glanced over my shoulder and watched as Gordon casually leaned back, and in that style that anyone who has ever ref'ed with him would instantly recognize, absolutely launched his flag skyward.  A split second later, Ryan's flag arced through the air as well.  Their flags flew in near-perfect unison, like two yellow skyrockets at a summer fireworks display.  Gordon announced in a commanding voice that was undoubtedly heard all the way up in the pressbox:  "Flag down!"  I knew that both Gordon and Ryan had my back.

Gordon was an outstanding lacrosse official, a knowledgeable trainer, a caring coach, and a wonderful friend who gave a tremendous amount of himself to the sport of lacrosse.  He was loved by many and will be sorely missed. 

The Firestone family is heartbroken over the loss of Gordon. He coached and trained our oldest, Tyler, in the early years and taught him how to be a solid defenseman. We felt fortunate to have our son learn from one of the best! We followed Gordon along with his mental health journey and were impressed by his openness and perseverance. We were lucky enough to see Gordon last spring officiating a high school lax game for our youngest son, Mason. I am grateful for the big, sweaty bear hug he gave me that night. It was wonderful catching up with him and hearing about the Corsettis. It was clear he was proud of his family.  Mary Jo, Lou and Caitlin, we are so sorry for your loss. Gordon will forever live in our hearts. Xoxoxo

- Shari and Jeff Firestone