Gordon Thomas Soffel

Gordie passed peacefully in his home surrounded by family on Friday, May 2, 2025. To put this man’s story into words would be to write a book too long to read. He was the most loving husband, father, grandpa, and friend.

Gordie was born on January 11, 1947, in Redlands, California, to Bill and Vera Soffel. He was the third of four children and raised in Oregon, where he graduated from Rogue River High School. He later made his way to Utah, where he formed lifelong friendships through his love of roping. Gordie could be found in the roping arena every weekend, heeling steers with a cold beer in hand.

He welcomed his first son, Cody, in October 1974. He later met the love of his life, Cathy, and they were married on July 29, 1979. They moved to Rush Valley and welcomed Travis and “the twins” into their home. Together, they built the kind of life most people only dream of. Gordie was an incredible father who spent countless hours supporting his kids in everything they loved. There was always an extra kid in the arena—roping, running barrels, or tying goats. Dad was always ready to offer “free” advice about what you did—or didn’t do—correctly.

As the kids got older and high school rodeo began, Gordie could be found pushing a calf or holding a horse in the box. However, he drew the line at leading in a wild barrel horse—you were told to “fix it or quit.”

In his later years, Gordie traded time at the arena for the boat and the ballfield. He always loved a good fishing trip. Some of the best memories were made on the pontoon, teaching the grandkids how to bait a hook and cast a line. He loved cheering on his grandkids and was proud of everything they did—whether rodeoing, playing softball, baseball, football, hockey, or shooting trap.

Gordie was always up for a Bloody Mary on a Sunday to kick off the day’s events. Anyone who knew him knew they could stop by for a cold beer and a good story. He will be deeply missed.

Gordie is survived by his wife Cathy, brother and sister Charlie and June, children Cody (Chyanne) Soffel (Haylee, Hayden, Harlie), Travis (Stacy) Soffel (Brandy, Braiden, Briley, Bryson, Cole, Austin, great-grandchildren Noah, Lilly, and Peyton), Nicki (Chad) Anderson (Allie, Brynlee, Corbin), and Annie (Cliff) Walter (Saddie and Chase). 

Gordie was preceded in death by his Dad and Mom, Bill and Vera Soffel, and sister Ann Thompson.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, May 14th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Clover Cemetery. A luncheon will follow the services at the Rush Valley Town Hall.