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Donald “Don” James Thurston, aged 53, passed away on April 19th, 2016 at his home in Grand Rapids, MI. Don was born in Ludington, MI on Feb 12th, 1963 to James Vernon Thurston (pre-deceased) and Sondra Schwink Thurston (surviving). He attended Mason County Central High School before enlisting in the Army. While serving his country, Don developed a lifelong passion for firearms. He competed in Garand Match shooting competitions at Camp Perry, was an active member of the International Defense Pistol Association (IDPA) and NRA, as well as an avid hunter and outdoorsman. Don was the long-time manager of Silver Bullet Firearms in Grand Rapids.

Don is survived by his wife, Jody (Harrison) Thurston, they were married on September 9th, 1995 in Scottville, MI. Don also leaves his son Benjamin (age 10) and daughter Kennedy (age 6). Don was a devoted father and he will be remembered as one of the most patient men his friends and family have ever known. Don is also survived by his brother Kevin (Dena) Thurston of Fountain, MI, his sister Karen (Ricky) Pate of Olive Branch, MS, and his nephew and god-son Tyler Thurston.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 23rd at 11am at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Scottville, MI with Pastor Schroeder officiating. Visitation will be held Friday April 22nd from 6-8pm at Oak Grove Funeral Home as well as at 10am on Saturday April 23rd at Our Savior Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory can be made to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation at 90 Park Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10016 or online at www.bbrfoundation.org or for college education of Don’s children; Benjamin and Kennedy Thurston.

Please feel free to share a photo or memory with Don’s family on his personal webpage at www.oakgrovefh.com.

The family has entrusted Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington with arrangements.

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