Gordon "Skip" Guss

Gordon "Skip" Guss, 72, of Delray Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 5th, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on November 14, 1953, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Skip lived a life defined by passion, generosity, and an unwavering love for the game of golf. He attended the University of Arizona before qualifying to play on the PGA Tour—a lifelong dream that reflected both his talent and dedication to the sport.

While Skip enjoyed competing, his greatest legacy in golf came through teaching. After his time on the PGA Tour, he worked at several golf courses throughout Florida before moving to New England in 1995. There, he discovered his true calling: helping others experience the joy of golf. Whether working with beginners or seasoned players, Skip believed golf was about much more than a scorecard. With patience, encouragement, and a genuine gift for teaching, he inspired countless students to improve their game, build confidence, and most importantly, enjoy every round. Nothing made him happier than watching someone discover their own potential.

Although golf was the thread that ran throughout his life, Skip embraced new adventures wherever life took him. After moving to New England, he surprised even himself by falling in love with winter. He eagerly learned to ski and treasured the many days spent on the slopes with family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter and adventure.

Later, when Skip and his beloved wife, Mary Lou, relocated from Southborough, Massachusetts, to Delray Beach, Florida, he found new happiness in the coastal lifestyle. He embraced boating, relaxing on the beach, and the simple pleasures of living by the water. While illness shortened the time he was able to enjoy these new pursuits, they brought him great peace and joy.

Above all else, Skip was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lou Woodford; his daughter, Heather Michelle and her husband, Chris O'Malley, of Centennial, Colorado; his son, Robert James Guss and his wife, Grace; his stepchildren, Jake Woodford and his wife, Ashley; Timothy Woodford and his wife, Jennifer; and Brittany Woodford and her partner, Jacob Lister. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Armstrong, and her husband, Scott. Skip was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved sister, Diane.

Those who knew Skip will remember his easy smile, quick wit, quiet determination, and generous spirit. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel comfortable, whether they were standing on the first tee, sharing a chairlift, or simply enjoying a conversation. He measured success not by trophies or accomplishments, but by the relationships he built and the lives he touched.

Skip leaves behind a family who loved him deeply, countless friends, and generations of golfers who are better players—and better people—because of his guidance. His legacy lives on in every lesson he taught, every life he encouraged, and every memory shared by those fortunate enough to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for a future date.