Gordon “Gordy” Grams, 59 of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Morrison, IL, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025, after a short but brave battle with cancer, at Trinity Unity Pointe Hospital in Rock Island, IL, surrounded by family.
Gordon was born December 17, 1965, the youngest son of Carl H. and Gloria (Phillips) Grams. He was a member of St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church LC-MS in Morrison. He was “Out the Door in 84” as a 1984 graduate of Morrison High school, where he made a name for himself on the school’s Wrestling team. Part of the “Fearsome Foursome,” in 1981 the Whiteside News-Sentinel noted him as “The finest Freshman Wrestler Morrison High School had ever seen,” according to longtime influential, beloved, and late Coach Dan Drosopoulos. A very dedicated and talented individual, Gordy was named Wrestler of the Week numerous times for “most pins.” He ultimately lead his team to State twice during the 1981-1984 seasons, placing 2nd in State. Gordy instilled a sense of pride to the townspeople of Morrison during these years, especially for his parents who were there to capture every moment. His wrestling accomplishments gave start to the 100 Wins Club, the recognition for outstanding MHS wrestlers throughout the years.
He attended Sauk Valley College in Dixon, IL, and Blackhawk College, where he completed Plant Engineering Systems Training. Gordy started his career as a Certified Electrician for IBP, Inc. in Joslin, IL. In 1998 he joined I.B.E.W Local 145 out of Rock Island, IL. He then moved to Freeport, IL, where he lived, worked (Vitners) and made many friends, before transferring to ADM to work as a Journeyman Electrician at the plant in Clinton, IA. Gordy moved to Dubuque, IA, where he gave back to the community through the Dubuque Rescue Mission, doing work for local residents, schools, and youth organizations in the area. A kind, big-hearted man, he was always happy to help friends and family when he could. He lived in Dubuque, until his diagnosis in June of 2025, which brought him to live in the Quad Cities. There he resided with his two eldest daughters until his passing.
Gordy loved all things outdoors: camping, fishing, hunting, boating. He especially enjoyed his time at “The Bunker,” a cabin he had in Blandings Landing near Hanover, IL. He was an avid Los Angeles Rams fan and enjoyed watching Matt Kenseth driving NASCAR races. Gordy loved music, particularly Aerosmith, and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
He is survived by his daughters, Brittany (Matt) French of Rock Island, IL, Stephanie (Jesus) Grams Torrez of Milan, IL, and youngest biological daughter Rachel Sitzmore of Morrison; seven grandchildren, Rebecca and Brayden Kirzeder, Maliana “Molly,” and Angelo “Zeke” Grams, Elizabeth, Gisella, and Jackson French; sister, Cindy (Ted) Bush of Morrison; brother, Marty (Debbie) Grams of Morrison.
A Memorial Visitation was held at the Morrison Chapel of Bosma Renkes Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., until the start of the service at 4:00, with Ken Renkes officiating.
A big thank you to Bosma Renkes is extended from the family.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to MHS Wrestling in memory of Gordy Grams.