Gordon and Susan Reeve are Grand Marshals of Pioneer Day parade

by Easton Bowring, Staff writer Gordon and Susan Reeve will lead the Land Above the Canyons Pioneer Day parade as the 2018 Grand Marshals. The Reeves are being recognized for their commitment and dedication to serving the youth in the community.
The grand marshals are selected based on their community involvement, service, and dedication to bettering the world around them.  
“Gordon and Susan are perfect examples of being outstanding citizens,” said an anonymous submitter. “They serve and care silently and are always proud of the people they are surrounded by. Many people have been touched by their selfless service.”
Gordon grew up in Hurricane, UT, while Susan grew up on the opposite side of Zions National Park in Mount Carmel, UT.  On the eve of her 21st birthday, Susan sat in her college dorm wishing that a handsome young man would walk into her life and sweep her off her feet, in time for her birthday.
With much persuasion by Susan’s friends, Gordon agreed to go on a blind date and plans were made for the following day. After a night full of laughter, a spark was formed between Gordon and Susan, and the rest is history.
Gordon and Susan were soon married and started their lives together while studying at Southern Utah University.
Upon graduating and receiving a teaching degree, Gordon packed up his family and moved to Monument Valley, where he taught for three years.
Then, 29 years ago, a teaching position opened at Monticello High School. Gordon jumped at the opportunity to teach in Monticello and has been living in Monticello ever since.
Since moving to Monticello, Gordon and Susan have been involved with the community, their church, and have participated in many different events for the advancement of the community’s youth.
Susan ran a daycare out of their home for 22 years, where she built a great love for the children in the community.  
When the youngest group of kids turned old enough to begin kindergarten, Susan decided to graduate from daycare and go back to school.  She has been a cook at Monticello Elementary School for the past ten years.
One of Susan’s biggest community involvement positions has been running children’s activities during the San Juan County Fair. She prepares games and crafts for the youth to come and enjoy.
Susan has been involved in this program for 25 years, and has led the effort for more than 15 years.
“Susan is a valuable part of the San Juan County Fair workforce,” said San Juan County Fair Director Anna Fredricks. “The love she has for the children is irreplaceable.”
Gordon has been the math teacher at Monticello High School for the past 29 years where he has received district and state recognition for his teaching performance.  
Gordon has been involved in Boy Scouts for many years, and has served in Cub Scouts, on Roundtable, as Webelos leader and as Cub Master. Through these, he knows the youth of Monticello, and serves as a mentor.  
With a sticker that reads, “FFA – Father Feeds Animals,” Gordon’s truck has taken him to many Junior Livestock and 4H events, where he has served in leadership programs overseeing the children of the community as they raise and show lambs, hogs, and steers at the San Juan County Fair.
“Gordon was always good to help kids with their livestock project, and was always involved with volunteer projects at the fair,” said San Juan School District Superintendent Ron Nielson.
“At school, he has taught math for 30 plus years and worked with hundreds of kids. He has been a fixture at MHS for years.”
Gordon and Susan have been involved in the Cub Scouts Day Camp for ten years, and were the organizers for eight years.
Gordon and Susan raised five children in Monticello, teaching them to work hard and serve others.
Their children are going on to raise their own families and continue many family traditions.  
Gordon and Susan currently have seven grandchildren whom they love and adore.  “It’s fun to have kids,” said Susan. “But it’s even more fun to have grandkids.”
For their high community involvement and dedication to Monticello youth, the community is honored to recognize Gordon and Susan Reeve as the 2018 Grand Marshals.