Raul J. Vidaurri (Gordy), age 42, passed away on Monday, September 2, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. He was born on December 10, 1981 to Raul and Oralia Vidaurri. Gordy spent his childhood growing up in Sunnyside, Washington until his enlistment in the U.S Marine Corps in June of 2000.
Gordy's passion for adventure inspired him to explore extensively with the Corps, accumulating many memories and experiences before his 2003 deployment to Iraq where he served as a Machine Gunner in Regimental Combat Team-2 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.β Throughout his military career, Gordy earned several honors, including the Combat Action Ribbon (Iraq), the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2nd Award), National Defense Service Medal, Certificate of Commendation, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Expert Rifle Qualification Badge. After completing his service in the Marine Corps in 2004, Gordy transitioned to work in private security before settling in Seattle, Washington.
As a long-time Seattle resident Gordy enjoyed many of the PNW’s simple pleasures. He appreciated the familiar aromas of a freshly brewed coffee, long walks around a bustling Pike Place market, and a loud 90’s grunge playlist. Music amplified Gordy’s daily routines, serving as a backdrop to the energetic city he called home. His favorite anthems became a soundtrack to his life, evoking nostalgic memories he enjoyed sharing with others.
Gordy’s journey in life was shared with his beloved grandparents, Felipe and Maria Rodriguez, and Lucia and Robert Vidaurri, who have passed on.β He is also cherished in memory by his parents, Raul and Oralia Vidaurri, and his siblings: Ricky (Lacey) Vidaurri, Michael (Estela) Vidaurri, and Elizabeth Vidaurri. Gordy is remembered by his nephews, Michael Ian, Evan, Elliot, Jaxson, Shepherd, and niece Charlotte Vidaurri, who brought him immense happiness.
Gordy will be greatly missed, but will always hold a special place in our hearts as a treasured son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend.β βHis enduring legacy of service and dedication to his friends, family and country will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held for Gordy with visitation taking place on Thursday, September 12, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m. and Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside, WA. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Sunnyside, WA. Burial will follow with Military Honors at the Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside. Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Raul Junior Vidaurri, please visit our floral store.