CLAYTON - Gordon E. Rose, Sr. of Clayton, died on Monday, Oct. 25, 2010, at Capitol Health Care in Dover. He was 78. Mr. Rose was born Nov. 8, 1931, in West Virginia, the son of the late Calvin Rose and Bessie Yates Rose. He was a Veteran of the United States Army. Mr. Rose was the Owner of Rose's Exxon in Smyrna for 10 years and also managed a Texaco Gas Station in Wilmington. He loved playing golf and was a NASCAR fan, especially of Ernie Irvan. He also enjoyed working in his workshop tinkering with things. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Amanda Lynne Rose; and he was the last of nine brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife, Malinda J. Rose; a daughter, Brenda Alexander and her husband Kenny of Wilmington; two sons, William E. Rose of Smyrna, and Gordon E. Rose, Jr. and his wife Lynne of Clayton; and six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Services will be held privately by the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Delaware Chapter, 2306 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.