Gordon L. Eggleston

Gordon L. Eggleston began his tenure at Ithaca College in 1965, as a member of the faculty and head gymnastics coach. Throughout his 29-year career at IC, he taught numerous courses within the Departments of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. He retired as an assistant professor in 1995, and continued as a part-time instructor for two more years, teaching courses such as field archery, fly fishing, and fly tying. He also helped establish the Ithaca College Natural Lands. 

Prior to his career at IC, Gordon taught physical education for 10 years in various public schools in New York and Florida. While in Florida, he also served for three years as recreation director for the city of Leesburg. In 1951, he earned a bachelor’s degree at the New York State University at Brockport with a dual major in health education and physical education. In 1965, he earned his master’s in education at Georgia Southern University.

Gordon was regarded as a talented fly fisherman and bow hunter, as well as a master at fly-tying. His other great love was writing: prose, poetry, and music, especially Southern and country gospel music. Gordon had written both lyrics and music for some 94 such songs. He was a member of Pleasant Hope Baptist Church in Fairmont, North Carolina.

Gordon was born in Cooperstown, New York, and raised on his father's dairy farm. He and his wife, Kathy, had four sons and a daughter: Richard, Frank, Gordon, Lawrence, and Darla.

I was a student in a class taught by Prof. Eggleston sometime between 1978 and 1982. I am a private tutor and I mentioned this class and its content to a student today. This prompted me to look up Prof. Eggleston. I remember him fondly and I remember him well. I am grateful to have crossed paths with him. A good man!

Annette Oliva

I worked with Gordie in the Recreation Department back in 1980-81. He was the kind, warm and funny. I enjoyed every interaction I had with him. I am so very sorry to hear he has passed away, but I know he left a lasting impression on many.

Julia Edmondson Mastroberti

My Dad was the best Father a son or daughter could have. He and Mom raised us five kids and instilled the morals, values, and manners that every child should have. Without Dad as a role model I would not be the man that I am today, and I cherish every moment that I shared with him. His love for me gave me the love that I continue giving to others, in my life. When Dad left this life we lost a very good man. I try to honor my Dad by being the best man that I can be.

Frank Eggleston