Former Depot Worker, Fred Thurman, Dies at 87

Fred L. Thurman died on Jan. 25, 2014 in Hermiston at the age of 87.

He was born on Oct. 30, 1926 in Scottsbluff, Neb., to Otis and Ethel Wisner Thurman. He was raised and attended schools in Harrisburg, Neb. Fred married LaVon Shuler on Feb.25, 1949 in Redington, Neb. He worked at the Sioux Army Depot in Sidney, Neb., for several years before transferring to the Umatilla Army Depot in 1967. He worked in the tool crib until retiring in 1985. Fred was a member of the New Hope Community Church, Hermiston. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and gardening.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, LaVon Thurman, Hermiston; son, Mike Thurman and his wife, Wanda, Hermiston; daughter, Sue Swope and her husband, LeRoy, Hermiston; brother, Dwaine Thurman, Little Rock, Ark.; six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Danny Thurman.

A celebration of life service was held on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2014 at New Hope Community Church in Hermiston.

A private family burial will be held at the Hermiston Cemetery.

Those who wish may make contributions in Fred’s memory to the New Hope Community Church Building Fund.

Please sign the condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.