William Wesley THURMOND

THURMOND, WALKER, CLARK, MYERS, OPPELAAR

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 12/22/2010 at 00:30:22

October 2, 1926 -- November 24, 2010

LCDR William Wesley THURMOND USCG - Ret. Bill was born October 2, 1926 to Ethel & Brice Thurmond in Dows, Iowa. He died November 24, 2010 in Kirkland, Washington. Bill joined the Navy in August, 1944, just before his 18th birthday. He continued his career in the Navy and Coast Guard until retirement on August 1, 1968. Bill had a second career in Insurance Loss Control working both in Alaska and Washington. In 1947, Bill married his wife of 63 years, Joyce Gardiner, and together they raised three daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother James, sister Arlene, niece Shannon Walker and nephew James, Jr. He is survived by his wife, daughters Sheryl Clark of Shoreline, Karen (Dave) Myers of Wilton, Iowa, and Janet Thurmond (Alan Oppelaar) of Lewiston, Idaho, 8 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Bill was a respected woodworker and many people enjoyed his work. He requested no service and was buried in Tahoma National Cemetary. A memorial service will be held at a later time. "You will always remain in our hearts and minds. Rest in peace."

The Seattle Times -- Seattle, Washington
December 19, 2010