Gordon and Michelle Reese met at a cycling event in 2006. They were drawn together by their mutual love of the outdoors. Gordon was living in Oakland, and Michelle was in Walnut Creek, and after a year of dating they decided to make their home together in the Northgate neighborhood. They married in Carmel in 2010. Gordon says, “and since then our journey together has been filled with adventure, community involvement, and a passion for creating meaningful connections.”
Living an active and engaged life
They choose Northgate because of its “perfect balance – it’s quiet and peaceful, and yet it keeps us close to all the action,” adds Gordon. The Reese family appreciates the many outdoor activities available and having a vibrant downtown just a short drive away. Gordon and Michelle take full advantage of Northgate’s best opportunities as they both still enjoy cycling, hiking, and outdoor adventures. Gordon has recently discovered disc golf, and Michelle enjoys the Pilates reformer, and line dancing.
Careers centered on helping others
Gordon heads Gordon Reese Design Build and is passionate about transforming homes and creating dream spaces for homeowners. He is a Master Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler and a Universal Design Certified Professional (emphasizing functional and inclusive design). Beyond his work, he is proud to support charities such as Arm of Care, Joybound, and Friends of Mt. Diablo. He also coaches youth cyclists for the Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team. Gordon is a fan of the Tour de France, travel (Gordon moved 14 times in his first 14 years and spent part of his childhood in Japan), and mindfulness practices.
Michelle is the founder of Michelle Reese Lifestyle Coach, where she helps people cultivate healthy lifestyle habits, inspired by ancestral wisdom. She is also a Heal Your Life Coach and Workshop Leader, trained in the teachings of Louise L. Hay, and specializes in personal and space clearing and energy work based on Chinese Medicine. She and Gordon share a love of eating healthy and staying fit. Michelle is one of 8 children, with a twin brother. Fun fact: two of her other siblings are also twins.
Proud of their grown children
They have three grown children between them. Sierra is Gordon’s daughter. She works as a dental assistant and Operations Manager at a Washington dental clinic and is a mom to three busy boys. “They bring so much joy to our lives as grandparents,” adds Gordon.
Bri, Michelle’s daughter, is a computer science professional at a local university; she developed expertise in programming, web design, and artificial intelligence. She has a love for dance and embraces her geeky side with a deep passion for Anime, Marvel Superheroes, and Comi-Cons.
Daria, also Michelle’s daughter, is a Veterinary Technician at a neighborhood clinic. She enjoys her animals, Anime, art and hiking, and combining her creativity with her love of the outdoors.
And then there are the fur babies! Cody is a 14-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, and Jackson is a 2 1⁄2-year-old Poodle/Maltese mix. They enjoy hikes with their humans and exploring the outdoors, just like the rest of the family.
Family time
Each year this blended family tries to gather for a special trip, creating lasting bonds and memories together. From Christmas break in San Diego to Thanksgiving and a birthday celebration in Washington, “these trips have become a cherished tradition, giving us time to reconnect, explore and enjoy life’s simple pleasures as a family.”
The best of Northgate
Gordon adds, “What we appreciate most about Northgate is the sense of safety and tranquility. We know many of our immediate neighbors and enjoy getting together from time to time. We also love being surrounded by nature, whether it’s hearing birds in the morning, hiking the nearby hills, watching the local wildlife, or visiting the local parks, the area provides a wonderful backdrop for an active and connected lifestyle.
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by The Reese Family