Gordon James Inglis was born on August 1, 1925, in McCook, Nebraska, to Glen and Anna Inglis. He was raised in McCook, Nebraska, graduating from McCook High School on May 24, 1943. He went on to join the Marine Corps, and served in the Sixth Marine Division from 1943 to 1946. He was assigned to the Pacific Theater, where he fought valiantly in the battle for Okinawa. He earned the "Presidential Unit Citation", "American Campaign Medal", "Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal", and the "Victory Medal". After serving his country, he attended McCook Junior College and Augustana College, in Rock Island, Illinois.

On December 2, 1949 he married the love of his life, Joan Allen. Patricia Ann, Mary Jane, and Gordon James were born as a result of their union. He worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for 25 years, and then went on to establish a career with the National Transportation and Safety Board as a railroad accident investigator. He was a member of the "Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers" and the VFW.

He was a member of First Baptist Church of Broomfield for 44 years. He served as a deacon, and ministered in many other capacities. Throughout his life he helped plant a church in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, and supported many Christian organizations and missionaries. He frequently opened his home to people in need.

On December 14, 2013, Gordon left this earth and entered the presence of his heavenly Father. He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Joan Inglis, three children, Patricia Ann Carlstrom, Mary Jane O'Hara, and Gordon James Inglis, eight grandchildren, Brian, Jason, Katelyn, Kyle, Sara, Rebekah, Leah, and Esther, and four great grandchildren Joshua, Vincent, Jillian, and Lily.