When I first started as a messenger in 2005 it was at a company with an impeccable knack for over-hiring and turning employees over. I was a rookie that could be seen from a mile away. A nickel/dozen type. “Summer help”. I wore a fresh crease in my clean pants and bag, a bright yellow shirt, this overly confused expression below my spotless yellow helmet but above my brand new reflective vest (which had plenty of velcro left on it.) A true leper for any old schooler. Except Dre. Dre was the nicest, most open person to me and made me feel so special and welcome on first sight. He told me stories with references that went way over my head and he actually asked me questions to get to know me better and see what I was about…
Every opportunity I got, I would introduce Dre with that story. I must have explained that whole story at length in his presence at least 20 (thousand) times. Most of the time he would contain the rolling of his eyes ever so subtly and smile his big, polite smile as if it was the first time he heard it.
His laugh was so deep and joyful, he was always an attentive listener and you could count on him being on your side for every story of every situation. There really, truly is nothing bad to say about Andre Gordon. Just through his good nature, this man was an absolute inspiration to find and bring out the best in everyone. If you would have just met the guy you’d have considered him a friend and he would share the label. He’s someone you’d wish the whole world could know.
Word is all over the place but apparently Dre was found lifeless at his home on the weekend of Sunday, November 14 presumably due to a cardiac arrest that occurred a couple days prior. He was only 53 years old. My heart goes out to those closest to him. Details on services will be up as soon as we can get them.
November 15th, 2010 at 1:37 am
god, this just kills me. what a great man. great sadness falls on all those who knew him.
November 15th, 2010 at 2:05 am
i wish i had the words to describe how much i’m gonna miss this guy. i’m sure i’m not the only one. RIP, Dre.
November 15th, 2010 at 10:08 am
Very well said. Dre was such a great guy and always involved back when we were trying to organize a BMA/union, do picnics, etc. What a loss.
November 15th, 2010 at 1:15 pm
Didn’t know the man, but sorry that you guys lost a good friend.
November 15th, 2010 at 2:04 pm
I’m honored to have been his friend for a little bit. I’ll miss him alot
I cried when CPD called and asked if I knew how to get in touch with his fam, but then again he taught me much about staying positive. I hope youre in a great place now that it aint the same shit different day anymore.
much much love. Thanks for being awesome Dre.
Andrea
November 15th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Man, this is devastating. One of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. I’ll miss him very much. My heart goes out to everyone in Chicago. The Loop won’t be the same.
November 15th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
I first met Dre in 97 when I was a messenger at KDR… he was driving a van for KDR picking up high rate suburban jobs in the morning then parking the van and biking into the loop and dropping the jobs in the evening… it was brilliant !!! He was one of the top earners at KDR. The last few years whenever I came into Chicago I would either see him in the loop at the Thompson Center, or call him and have him meet me at Cal’s to have a spot and catch up… there are so many more memories of Dre… I can’t begin to tell how much he liked riding a freakin bike!!!! His joy and enthusiasm inspired me every time I saw him. He was a fellow comrade and a great friend. We should be so lucky to know someone like Andre Gordon… lets cherish our friendships, they are priceless.
November 15th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
I am now hearing he was possibly found sooner than Sunday. If that matters…
There will be a get together at Cal’s tonight, Nov. 15.
There will also be one tomorrow (11/16) at or around 5:30. Sounds like with weather permitting there will be a ride to Union Park – the place of the ever famous Dre Day bbq.
November 15th, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Devastating. What a wonderful man. I so many fond memories of him from when I was in Chicago. I wish I could gather with folks to raise a glass to him tonight.
November 15th, 2010 at 8:25 pm
I met Andre when I came to Chicago to work with the newly formed organization which became the CCU.
Andre was solid from the start-always positive, always supportive, committed to his fellow workers and a real backbone to attempts at making things move.
I have very fond memories of working alongside Andre, and have a hard time imagining the Chicago messenger scene without him.
Much respect and solidarity
Pete Little
November 15th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
This is terrible. Dre was awesome, and all of us who knew him will always remember his toothy, ever present grin. He was one of the most optimistic persons I have ever met.
November 15th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
Really shocking news.
I knew Dre only from a few chance encounters at Cal’s and passing him on the street, where he always had a smile and wave.
My condolences to his co-workers, friends, son and other family.
November 16th, 2010 at 11:10 am
Dre never lost the ability to explore new things, and to meet new people with a genuine smile, am I right? He was infinitely accepting, and he was always, “takin’ care of business.”
I don’t know what he was doing after he worked at Cal’s. Does anyone know what he was doing for the past couple years?
I’m really sad that I won’t have a chance to rehash with him. Now I feel bad that I lost contact with him.
-Nate
November 18th, 2010 at 8:57 am
He worked for me in house for about 3 years, so he is part of the DIR family we are shock and saddened by his passing. Our nickname for Dre is Flash because he was fast and his last name was Gordon he seemed to like it because he answered it.
Everything you guys are saying about Flash is true, he was unflappable and eternal optimus always happy with that million dollar smile. RIP love to you
November 19th, 2010 at 11:40 am
I knew Dre thru my bike messenger cousin (Slo Jim). The first time I met him he made quite an impression as a unflappably happy person despite his circumstances sometimes. He radiated a positivity and warmth that very few people can. He left such an impression with me that I am overcome with emotion. Rest in peace Dre til we meet again.
November 22nd, 2010 at 6:58 am
Through the bar,
and to the floor.
Along the ground,
and out the door.
To the streets,
our land of lore.
To those not here,
and those no more.
Cheers, ‘Dre.