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Harry F. Thurber (a.k.a. The Flash and Poppa Bear), 84, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed on April 10, 2019.
Originally from Brooklyn, NY, he raised his family in Ridgewood, Queens, and Brooklyn and lastly, moved to Leonia, NJ in 1970. He was predecesed in life by his bride of 43 years, Joan (Kunz) and parents, Henry and Caroline Thurber, as well as brothers, James and Daniel. He leaves behind 5 children, Diane Thurber-Wamsley (Joe), Michael (Debbie), Thomas (Barbara), Nancy Lincoln, and Jennifer Vitale (Pete), along with 10 grandchildren; Joey Wamsley; Katie and Matthew Lincoln; Nicole, Casey, Thomas and Zachary Thurber; Connor, Noelle, and Aidan Vitale and great grandson, Reese Wolfe. He is also survived by a brother, Robert Thurber, as well as many nieces, nephews and sister-in-law, Patricia Thurber.
Harry is a Korean War veteran having served in the United States Army.
Harry and Joan retired to Lake Placid, Florida in 1992 after Harry’s 30 years as a Senior Systems Analyst at MetLife.
Harry was an avid fisherman and sportsman having played golf, softball and bowling as recently as February. He loved sharing in the activities and accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews by playing with, coaching or attending their many events.
Some of his own sports accomplishments included winning the jackpot on the 70’s TV show Bowling for Dollars. He was also an important member on the Senior Softball team that won the over-70 softball championship in the state of Florida.
In his later years, Harry found his faith renewed in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He moved to Vero Beach about 5 years ago in order to be closer to his daughter, Jennifer and his church family. He was an active participant at Calvary Chapel Vero Beach. During his time there, Harry had the opportunity to serve on a missions trip with the youth group to Ocean Grove, NJ.
A celebration of life service will be held at Calvary Chapel Vero Beach at 11am on June 15, 2019.
In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, who faithfully helped care for Harry and his family during his final months.
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