Gordon Elsten

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gordon Dale Elsten, age 73, Joplin, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at a local hospital.

Gordon was born December 16, 1951 in Joplin, son of the late Donald Everett Elsten and Betty Lou (Robertson) Elsten. He grew up in Riverton, KS and graduated from Riverton High School before going to Pittsburg State University for a couple of years and then receiving his degree as a Pharmacist from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS. 

He began his career working for St. John’s Hospital in Joplin and then began the Pronto Pharmacy in Joplin. He sold that business and bought the Gilstrap Pharmacy in Galena, KS and it became Gordon's Drug which he ran for many years before retiring in 2009.

He was very particular in the care he gave his “things”, whether that be his cars or his lawn equipment. He was very thorough in cleaning and maintaining his possessions, and they would last him for many years because of that persistence. He had a 1994 Trans Am that still looked as good as the day he purchased it, and also a 2008 Jeep Sahara, and a 2002 Mercedes Benz which was one of his prized possessions. 

He also had a large collection of vintage cameras and old stereo equipment which he enjoyed collecting over the years. He helped many people over the years and will be greatly missed by many.

Survivors include his brothers, Stanley Elsten and wife Nancy of Riverton, KS, Coy Elsten and wife Beth of Carl Junction, MO, Larry Elsten of Dadeville, MO, and Chris Elsten and wife Michelle of Rogers, AR; numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with a memorial service to be held at a later date.