John R. Gurnee

John Robert Gurnee, age 46, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on November 23, 2012. John had a brief and hard-fought battle with respiratory problems.

John was born in Appleton on April 26, 1966, son of Franklin and Viola (Fischer) Gurnee. He graduated from Appleton West High School in 1984, and was a lifelong Appleton resident. He was employed at the Speedway Gas Station until his health problems arose.

John was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, and Reggie White had always been his favorite player. He enjoyed collecting and drawing action figures, such as Thor, and proudly displayed them for people to enjoy. He also enjoyed collecting cars and video games. Many will remember seeing John around town on his motor scooter, walking his dog, and stopping to talk to anyone would listen to him. John was a rather private person, but absolutely always put his family first.

Survivors include his mother: Viola Gurnee of Appleton; a brother: Bud Gurnee of Appleton; two sisters: Lisa (Kurt) Van Weele of Greenville and Jill Gurnee and her friend Mark Lax of Menasha; five nieces and nephews: Matthew Van Weele, Melissa Van Weele and her fiancé Jason Wagner, Adam Grambow, Alex Grambow, and Ashley Grambow; a special friend: Russell Rybarczyk who was also there to spend time with John as he battled his illness; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. John also had two canine companions – Sam and Eros – who kept him going while on walks. He was preceded in death by his father Franklin S. Gurnee; his grandparents: Charles and Helen Fischer and Seely and Sylvia Gurnee.

A memorial service for John will be held at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 at the Wichmann Funeral Home in Appleton, with Fr. Gerald Falk officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday from 3:00 PM until the time of the service. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Fox Valley Humane Association.

The family would like to offer their sincere thanks to the many caregivers who watched over John. They include Dr. Pahl, Dr. Partain, Dr. Kuplic, the Gold Cross medics, and the emergency department at St. Elizabeth Hospital. We will never forget your kindness.

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton, WI 54911
920 739 1231