Lexington, KY (formerly of Red Lake Falls) – It is with profound sadness and heartfelt appreciation for an extraordinary life that we announce the passing of Gordon A. St. Michel, who departed this world on March 17, 2026, at Baptist Health Lexington, Kentucky.
Gordon, born on December 28, 1952, at the Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois, succumbed peacefully after a valiant fight with a respiratory infection. He was 73 years old.
Gordon was the beloved son of the late E.J. (Jerry) and Gail (Hofius) St. Michel (Red Lake Falls) who predeceased him. His surviving family includes his brother, Jeff, and sister-in-law, Sharon, residing in Gulf Shores, AL. Gordon leaves behind a legacy cherished by his nephew, Seth St. Michel, his spouse Jessica, and their children Cora, Amelia, and Wesley of Chesapeake, VA; his niece, Gayle Gauck, her spouse William, and their children Alex and Oliver of Gulfport, MS; and his nephew, Trent St. Michel, of San Diego, CA. He is also survived by his nephews and niece’s mother, Beth Summerville, of Rochert, MN, as well as the extended St. Michel and Hofius families.
Gordon’s early life was full of adventure while his father was active US Navy, military life involved travel to naval bases domestically and internationally. The family was stationed and lived in Illinois, Florida, Panama, Virginia, California, Kamiseya, Japan; and Maryland eventually settling in Red Lake Falls following his father’s retirement from active service. Gordon graduated from Lafayette High School, Red Lake Falls, Class of 1971.
Gordon’s life was enriched by lifelong friendships and the camaraderie of colleagues and friends at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). An accomplished scholar, Gordon earned an Associate of Arts in General Education from Bemidji State University in 1973, a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of North Dakota in 1978, and a Master of Public Health from the University of Minnesota in 1985.
Gordon’s professional journey began in Minnesota, where he served as a staff occupational therapist in mental health settings. His passion for teaching and dedication to the field led him to academia, where he joined the University of North Dakota as an Assistant Professor from 1983 to 1988. In 1998, Gordon embarked on a pivotal chapter at EKU, where he taught for 24 years in the Occupational Therapy Department until his retirement in 2012, earning the honorary title of Faculty Emeritus.
Gordon was celebrated for his innovative, engaging teaching style, endearing him to countless students and advisees. His contributions to the OT Department were invaluable—he initiated the EKU chapter of Pi Theta Epsilon and played a crucial role in launching the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Science program. His mantra, “context is everything,” and his fervent advocacy for the power of occupation resonated deeply with those he mentored.
A stalwart of the occupational therapy profession, Gordon’s influence extended at both the state and national levels. He held numerous leadership positions within the North Dakota Occupational Therapy Association (NDOTA) and the Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association (KOTA). As KOTA President, he revitalized the organization through inventive fundraising, leaving it financially robust. His contributions earned him accolades such as the 1992 KOTA Outstanding Occupational Therapist of the Year and the 1997 KOTA Distinguished Service Award. Nationally, Gordon received service awards from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and was inducted into the AOTA Roster of Fellows in 1998.
Gordon’s interests were as varied as they were vibrant. He was an avid collector, a connoisseur of 80s music videos, a pop culture enthusiast, and a devoted gardener. His heart was tender towards animals, particularly his cherished cat, Dobbie, who preceded him in death.
In honoring Gordon’s legacy, a private ceremony will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kentucky Occupational Therapy Foundation. Contributions will support the establishment of the Gordon St. Michel Memorial Occupational Therapy Scholarship, benefiting occupational therapy graduate students with a keen interest in mental health practice.
Contributions can be sent via check to The Kentucky Occupational Therapy Foundation, P.O. Box 482, Berea, KY 40403, or through Zelle to kyotfoundation@gmail.com, with a note indicating the donation is for this scholarship.
Gordon A. St. Michel’s life was a testament to kindness, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to his students and the field of occupational therapy. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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