Arden Kenward Gurr

Of Jackson, passed away on Friday, July 6, 2012 at the age of 95. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Marguerite Gurr, in 1995. Arden was the last of his generation descendent of northern Michigan pioneer families. Arden was born on June 20, 1917 in Alden, Michigan. He was the youngest of a family of seven children. Arden, and his older sister Delta, were born to Herbert and Julia Gurr of Alden, Michigan joining five sibling step-brothers and step-sisters. All have preceded Arden in death. Arden will be remembered by his children, Lawrence (Marilyn) Gurr, James (Judy) Gurr, and Barbara (Robert) Dunham; thirteen grandchildren; twenty-nine great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, and friends. He married his wife in 1940 while working for Clark Equipment in Berrien Springs, MI. Arden’s lifelong interest in aviation began in earnest when he earned his pilot’s license in 1937. He and Mrs. Gurr relocated to Jackson in 1950. He retired from Clark Equipment in 1979 after 42 years of service. He then began a second career, working 20 years with Gurr Enterprises. He lived an active life, was an avid outdoorsman, a competitive marksman, and a member of numerous sportsman clubs in the Jackson area. He was a life member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and the National Rifle Association. Arden traveled extensively, he especially enjoyed frequent visits to Alaska, accompanied by his wife, family, and friends. Arden touched the lives and hearts of many and was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. Family will receive friends for visitation this evening from 5 to 8 at Burden & Son Funeral Home. A service celebrating his life will be held on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. with Mr. Jeffrey L. Gurr officiating, at Burden & Sons Funeral Home. Following services, he will be laid to rest next to his wife at Roseland Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Gurr to St. John the Evangelist Church of Jackson.