William A. Jordan

William A. Jordan (Bill), age 95, of San Diego, CA, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2023. Dr. Jordan was born on September 10, 1928 in Chicago, IL to John M. and Katie nee Allison Jordan. He was preceded in death by his wife Gretchen Bickell Jordan whom he married in 1964, and his brother, John M. Jordan, Jr. (1926-2010). He is survived by niece JoAnne Jordan Trimpe (Kevin), niece Susan Jordan (Charles Vavrus), nephew Jeff Jordan (Jenny) and 8 grand nieces and nephews as well as 9 great grand nieces and nephews. In addition, He is survived by Gretchen’s niece Kristen Bickell Welch (Vance), niece Wendy Bickell Avery (John), nephew Jordan Scott Bickell (Ginny) and 7 grand nieces and nephews.

Dr. Jordan joined the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto in 1969, having previously taught at Stanford, and was a member of the Economics area until his retirement in 1990. He was a UCLA graduate and served in the US Marine Corps and Air Force, where he retired with the rank of Colonel. As a result of his time in the Air Force, he developed a research interest in airline economics and also worked as an aviation sector consultant. Dr. Jordan’s expertise regarding airline regulatory issues played a role in the deregulation of the commercial airline industry. He took great satisfaction when his views were incorporated into the US Airline Deregulation Act of 1978.

After retiring from York University in 1990 and moving to San Diego, Dr. Jordan became involved with the World Affairs Council of San Diego, serving as Chief Financial Officer followed by President of the North County Chapter. He and his wife Gretchen enjoyed Scottish country dancing and traveling the world, where they frequently met up with friends or made new ones. Maintaining connections with friends and family despite miles between them was a deep priority for him. He had many close friends who were like family in San Diego and throughout the world. Although he was a frugal man who took pride in saving and investing, he was exceptionally generous. Dr. Jordan remained active and involved, with a quick wit until the end. He will be missed by all.

An interment ceremony will be held at Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, CA

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