James Ammon Thurston, 85, of Yuma, Ariz., passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2019 after a short but hard-fought illness. He was born Aug. 22, 1933 in Romeo, the son of Ammon and Ellen (Gustafson) Thurston. He married the love of his life, Marguerite Beech in May 1953.
Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army before working with both Chrysler and General Dynamics for the remainder of his career. For almost 30 years, Jim and Peg have traveled the country in retirement together visiting family and friends, helping others and enjoying many “Happy Hours”.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of more than 66 years, Peg and their children, Debra (Burt) Hirons, James (Deborah) Thurston Jr., Theodore (Deborah) Thurston and Paul (Kana) Thurston. Jim will be missed by his siblings, Merton Thurston, Marcia Stephens, and John (Sandy) Thurston. Jim’s 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren will forever remember him. A Wing Ding will never be the same.
Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie McDonald, and sisters, Jean Evans and Barbara Perkins.
Interment will take place at a time to be determined at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.
