Harry S. Gordon is a well known mortician of Utica, and possessing the qualities of leadership, he has won a commanding position in a business which has been successfully followed by three generations of the family. He was born in Argusville, Schoharie county, New York, November 19, 1882, a son of J. C. and Alvira (Hyney) Gordon, prominent residents of that place and members of pioneer families of Schoharie county. His ancestors in both the paternal and maternal lines were imbued with the spirit of patriotism and proved their loyalty to their country by gallant service in the Revolutionary war. His grandfather, Alvin Gordon, was the owner of an undertaking establishment in Argusville and after his death the business was taken over by J. C. Gordon, who proceed a worthy successor in its conduct.
The grammar and high schools of Sharon Springs afforded Harry S. Gordon his educational opportunities and he also had the benefit of study in a business college of New York city. He mastered the details of the undertaking business in his father's establishment and when twenty-one years of age became a licensed embalmer and undertaker. He was connected with undertaking firms in New York city and Schenectady for some time and in 1916 came to Utica, forming a partnership with Robert Batley, of the H. F. Slawson Funeral Company. After Mr. Batley's death, in 1918, Mr. Gordon became sole proprietor of the business, which was then located on Blandina street, and in 1919 he purchased the Addison C. Miller property, a very fine residence, situated at No. 6 Steuben park. This he has remodeled and is now the owner of the best appointed undertaking establishment in the Mohawk valley. His equipment is thoroughly modern, his prices are moderate and his service represents the highest degree of efficiency in his line. He has specialized in the undertaking business, having made it a life study, and in the discharge of his duties he is tactful, sympathetic and unobtrusive.
On September 27, 1907, Mr. Gordon was married to Miss Lillian Robb, a daughter of David and Harriet Robb of Westport, New York, and the hospitality of their home is frequently extended to their many friends. Mr. Gordon is a member of the Kiwanis Club and along fraternal lines is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Masons, also belonging to the Mystic Shrine. He is affiliated with the Westminster Presbyterian church and conforms his life to its teachings. As a business man his standing is of the highest and in all matters of citizenship his influence is on the side of progress and improvement.