John Thurman, Jr

It is with great sadness the family of John Thurman announces his passing on Monday, July 1^st, 2019, at the age of 91. John is preceded in death by his loving wife of over 65 years, Gladys Elma. He will be fondly remembered by his children and their spouses, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

John loved life. He and Elma experienced a full life together while enjoying their family and friends immensely.  Over the last 30 years they spent their winters in Florida enjoying the warm weather, fishing, and playing cards with friends. They truly enjoyed their time together and were inseparable. After Elma’s passing in 2016 John has been adrift without a compass. His greatest prayer was to be reunited with her in heaven. His prayers have come to fruition and they are now together for eternity. They are complete and whole again.

As a young man John did many things before settling into his career of carpentry. He taught himself the complexities of this profession and perfected his craft over a span of 60 years. John owned his construction business as this was a better fit for his “take charge”, hardworking personality.

John also possessed many talents and hobbies. He was a fun-loving person who had a quick-witted sense of humor and a knack for embellishing a joke. He loved music. John loved to sing old country western songs and a day didn’t go by without him singing numerous melodies. He was even known for writing his own clever lyrics on occasion. In addition to singing John loved to garden. Anyone who knew him would agree he had the most beautiful vegetable gardens on the west side of Indianapolis. Weeds stood no chance in his garden because they absolutely were not allowed. He always grew far more than could be eaten or canned simply for the joy of growing and for the joy of giving away. Another favorite pastime for John was fishing. He was a seriously good angler. He could usually out fish anyone and if he couldn’t he was none too happy about it. He preferred saltwater fishing but, in a pinch, would freshwater fish too. He owned many boats throughout his life, but his favorites were his deep-sea fishing boats.

John served his country and community well. He was a World War II veteran serving in the Navy. In 1984, after years of dedication and hard work he accomplish his goal of becoming the Master of Lynhurst Masonic Lodge #721. He was a 32^nd degree Master Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite and Shrine. During the popularity of CB radios, he and Elma belonged to many clubs where he held several officer positions and conducted fundraisers for muscular dystrophy. Throughout these many endeavors Elma was by his side helping and supporting him.

John had a deep love for his family and friends and was always willing to offer a helping hand. He taught his children and grandchildren to work hard, tell the truth, defend what is right, and love one another deeply. We will miss him deeply but have peace knowing, he is in heaven with Elma.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 3, 2019 from 4pm-8pm at Flanner Buchanan – Floral Park.

Visitation will also be held on Friday, July 5, 2019 from 11am-1pm with a funeral service to directly follow at Flanner Buchanan – Floral Park.