November 10, 1936 - February 6, 2019
Don Gurney, beloved husband of wife Barbara Gurney, passed away on February 6, 2019.
Don was preceded in death by his first wife Donna J. Swift; his son Michael Gurney; his brothers – author Gene Gurney (Virginia), Ben Gurney (Ohio) and Anthony Gurney (Michigan). Mother Josephine and Father Jacob (Ohio).
He is survived by son, Tony Gurney (Paula); daughters, Linda Maples and Sheri Coleman; step-daughter Cheryl Stone; step-sons Bill Thompson (Angela), Chuck Thompson (Diana), Tom Thompson (Betty) and Mike Thompson (Ina); and 25 grandchildren, 27 great-grand children and one great-great granddaughter.
Don was born in Toledo, Ohio went into the Airforce soon after high school. He was stationed at Yokota AB, Japan 1962-66; Pease AFB NH 1966-68; flew FB 66’s from Thailand during Vietnam War 1969; Scott AFB, MO 1970; Squadron Commander at Richard Gebaur AFB 1970-72; Air Operations Officer, Minot AFB, ND 1972-77.
He retired from the Air Force, moved to Reno/Carson City where he met Barbara on a blind date (was two hours late) and they married August 30, 1985.
Don was involved with the Nevada Day Committee and became a lifetime member. He served with the 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing and very proudly sponsored two SRW reunions with the Association in Reno, was a member with the Down Town Coin Club, he was a member of the Literacy (ESL) Association. Don also retired from the State of Nevada, Department of Transportation as an Information Systems Specialist III. He was a referee with the boy’s club basketball team in Reno. He enjoyed hunting, golf, travel and collecting memorabilia relating with the Air Force, and lots of 50’s, 60’s items.
The memorial service will be February 22, 2019 at 11:00 am with full military service at the Walton’s Chapel of the Valley on 1281 N.Roop Street in Carson City.
In lieu of flowers, donate to the ASPCA in Don’s name. Carson Tahoe SPCA, P O Box 4351, Carson City, NV 89702.