Gilbert Gordon McCoy April 7, 1924 - September 12, 2013

Gilbert Gordon McCoy, a La Canada resident for 61 years, died at his home on Thursday, September 12, 2013 at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife JoAnn and daughters Christine Liljeqvist and Susan McVicker and their families.

Gilbert was born in Long Beach, California, attended Occidental College and Columbia University. He served in WWII in the 69th Division, and was wounded in Germany. Gilbert married JoAnn Hillgren in 1950.

Gilbert was a consultant and business owner for 65 years. He promoted business opportunities in the Southland during his employ with the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. After private consulting on economic development projects, he became Principal of the Management Consulting Division of Ernst & Ernst.

Pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, he became a partner in a Dollar Rent a Car franchise and expanded operations to cities in California. He acquired a university travel agency and opened multiple agencies at universities in Southern California. Gilbert continued consulting with small businesses to improve operations and facilitate their acquisition by larger companies.

Gilbert was President of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and worked to bring the Army-Navy game to the Rose Bowl in 1983. He was also President of the Volunteers of America, and continued as a Director during which VOA became one of the largest supporters of charitable ventures in Los Angeles. Gilbert was on the board of directors for the Pasadena Pops Orchestra and was instrumental in making Descanso Gardens home of Pops. As an active member of the La Canada Presbyterian Church, Gilbert served as Deacon, Elder and sang in the choir.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the La Canada Presbyterian Church on Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 2:15 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Pasadena Community Foundation, Gilbert McCoy Memorial Fund, 260 S. Los Robles Avenue, Suite 119, Pasadena, CA 91101.