Fr. Gordon Kalil, O.P., a devoted priest of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), passed into eternal life on September 9, 2025, at the age of 83. A man of deep faith, intellectual rigor, and pastoral compassion, Fr. Gordon dedicated his life to the service of the Church, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the pursuit of truth.
Born in Michigan City in 1942, Fr. Gordon entered the Dominican Order inspired by its charism of preaching, study, community, and contemplation. After completing his philosophical and theological studies, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1994. For decades, he faithfully served in various ministries — as a parish priest, teacher, spiritual director, and retreat leader — always bringing the Dominican spirit of clarity, humility, and joy to those he encountered.
Fr. Gordon was known for his eloquence in the pulpit, his thoughtful homilies, and his unwavering commitment to the people of God. He touched countless lives through his quiet wisdom, patient counsel, and his ability to see Christ in every person.
A lover of sacred scripture and Dominican tradition, he also nurtured a strong contemplative life, grounded in prayer and the Eucharist. Those who knew him remember his gentle demeanor, sharp wit, and profound faith.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Julia (Nowfel) Kalil; brothers, Thomas and John Kalil; and survived by his two sisters, Camille Kalil and Cynthia Plank; nine nieces and nephews, Sara, Maggie, Zachary, Joshua, Kristen, Leslie, Tommy, Courtney, and Katie; and several great-nieces and nephews; his Dominican brothers, extended family, and many friends and parishioners whose lives he enriched.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Gordon Kalil, O.P., will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 201 Bach St, La Porte, IN 46350, with Fr. Nate Edquist officiating. Visitation and viewing will take place from 9 a.m. until the service time. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, (219) 362-3100, is caring for the arrangements.
In the words of St. Dominic: “We must sow the seed, not hoard it.” Fr. Gordon sowed faithfully and generously, and his legacy will continue to bear fruit in the hearts of those he served.
Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.
In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.
