Gordon Angles

Class of 1999

A 23-year veteran of the candy business at the time of his induction, Gordon was born on April 29, 1941 in Bluefield, VA. He graduated from Graham High School and attended Concord College in Athens, WV, for two years. In 1960 he married Judy in Sparta, NC, and they raised three children; Michael, Heather and Kimberly.

Gordon began his career in 1961, joining the management training program at W.T. Grant Co. In 1965, he was appointed store manager for the company. In 1974, he became district manager until joining Wythe-Will Distributing Co. in 1976 where he served as president at the time of his induction.

In 1996, Gordon received the Fantastic 50 Award from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce as one of the Top 50 fastest-growing private companies in Virginia. He also received the Captain John Smith Award from the same group for his outstanding contributions to the community.

At his induction, Gordon said that that the biggest influences in his life were provided by his father for teaching me to have a sound work ethic and his mother for teaching me to have patience and compassion with people. Gordon also credited hard work, good business ethics and treating the company’s employees, customers and suppliers fairly.

To those who will follow him into the candy world, Gordon offered this advice: Make your work enjoyable. Leave work each day knowing you have utilized your time wisely and done the best job you are capable of. Treat your employees and business associates with respect.