Melvin Seymour Gordon

Gordon, Melvin “Mel” Seymour, 88,

passed away peacefully on May 26, 2022, with his three children by his side.  Mel was born on December 10, 1933, in Chicago, Illnois, to Leonard and Eva Gordon. Mel was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Gordon, his mother, Eva Gordon, and his loving wife of 59 years, Roberta “Bobbie” Weaner Gordon.  He is survived by his brother, Ira Gordon (Yolanda), his sister, Joyce Jacobson, his three children, Randy Gordon (Michelle), Lori Schulis, Mark Gordon (Sebrina), eight grandchildren, Matthew Schulis, Bryan Schulis, Chelsea Gordon Hall, Courtney Schulis, Chandler Gordon, Michelle Gordon Troyer, Jessica Gordon, Julia Gordon, and three great-grandchildren, Charley Troyer, Gabriella Schulis, Robert “Beau” Schulis, and Briggs Hall.

Mel graduated from Drake University with a major in Business Administration. In college, he was a tremendous athlete, and a member of Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. During his days at Drake, he met the love of his life and married Roberta Lynn Weaner on August 8, 1954.  After moving to Tampa, Mel worked for Paradise Fruit Company for over 55 years. His many titles included President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board.  He was a member of Rodeph Sholom Synagogue, Temple Ahavat Shalom, Rodeph Sholom Men’s Club, Carrollwood Country Club, and Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club for over 25 years.  Mel loved golf, photography, dinners with his family, spending time with his grandchildren, traveling especially cruises, and was an avid fan of the Buccaneers, Rays, and Lightning.  

Mel’s greatest pride and joy was his family.  He was a wonderful husband, amazing father, adoring grandfather, and proud great-grandfather.  His kindness, strength, strong character, work ethic, and generosity will forever define his legacy.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Rodeph Sholom Synagogue, 2713 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa, followed by a graveside service at Myrtle Hill Cemetery, 4202 East Lake Avenue, Tampa.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tampa Jewish Federation, American Diabetes Association, or the charity of one's choosing.

Shiva will be Tuesday and Wednesday night at the Bayshore Diplomat Ambassador room.