Gene Thurber

THURBER - Mr. Gene D. Thurber, aged 84 formerly of Grand Rapids, passed away Monday, November 15, 2010 in Dallas, TX. He was born September 1, 1926 to Harry and Edith Thurber. Gene was preceded in death by his first wife, Vivian (Lamb) Thurber. Surviving are his wife of 9 years, Joyce Thurber; children, Kathy Thurber, JoAnn (Mike) Johnson, Sharon (Mike) Deardorff, Faye (Bill) Sandovel, Jim (Linda) Thurber; step children, Jeanne (Warren) Lynch, Joan (Frank) Cole, Janet (Steven) Helgerson; 17 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; sister, Arlene Watt. Gene was a Naval Veteran of WWII, served on Michigan Special Olympics Board of Directors (1969-1982), was Director of Special Education for Kent County (1978-1990), and received the Murray O. Batten Award in 1987. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Monday, November 22 at First Evangelical Free Church, 3950 Burton St. SE. The family will greet relatives and friends Sunday 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Dr. NE, and one hour prior to the service at church. Interment McBride Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Special Olympics. Memories and condolences to Gene's family may be shared at www.stegengafuneralchapel.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gene Thurber please visit our Sympathy Store.