Gordon Leroy Bithell

Gordon Leroy Bithell, 79, cherished husband, father, grandfather, friend, passed away on August 22, 2015. He was born October 31, 1935 in Salt Lake City, UT, the son of Leroy Bithell and Margaret (Harward) Bithell.

Gordon married Barbara (McLelland) and moved to California where they raised 3 children. In 1958 he founded his painting contracting business that would become Bithell, Inc., and dedicated himself to being the best businessman and provider he could be. He fulfilled that goal and never waivered from it throughout his life.

In 1971 he married Carolyn J. (Buckwell) Christiansen and moved to the home in San Dimas, CA where he resided for the rest of his life. Carol brought with her 4 children, whom he loved and raised as his own.

Gordon was proud of the business he built and worked hard to cultivate a reputation of quality, integrity, and reliability. Gordon was an active member of the Painting & Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) serving as past president of the LA County Chapter, Tri-County Chapter, vice-president of the Calif. Council, as well as a representative to the National PDCA.

Gordon had many interests and hobbies, which he pursued with the same dedication and passion he showed in his business and family life. He loved fishing, golfing, football, poker, & Sudoku. He was also an avid horse racing fan and owned many winning horses in the last decade. In recent years he bred his own race horses and had 3 owner-bred horses at the time of his death.

Gordon will be so dearly missed by all his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. His Legacy will live on in them and his business. Survivors include children: Gwen (Chris) Agler; Jill Campbell; Troy Bithell; step-children: Rick (Shauna) Christiansen; Cheri Christiansen; Ryan (Janalee) Christiansen; grandchildren: Ryan & Brett Agler; Audrey & Hannah Campbell; Chelsey, Courtney, Melanie & Reid Bithell; Steven Christiansen; Lainie Christiansen; Keeley Zukas; and 4 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents, beloved wife Carol, sister Carolee Faber, & stepson Jim Christiansen.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2015, 12:00 PM, at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills - Church of our Heritage, 21300 Via Verde Drive, Covina, CA 91724. Private reception for family & close friends to follow. Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Covina, California.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to National Multiple Sclerosis Society or Inland Valley Humane Society, Pomona.