This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: marysday Surnames: Thurman, Hensley, Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.oregon.counties.lincoln/5563/mb.ashx Message Board Post: The News Times, Newport, OR 97365 Posted: Wednesday, Sep 22nd, 2010 Everett "Pee Wee" Thurman Everett Warren "Pee Wee" Thurman Jr., 85, of Newport, Ore., died Sept. 16, 2010. He was born July 16, 1925 to E.W. Thurman and Mary Hensley Thurman in Mill Springs, Mo. He joined the Merchant Marines at the age of 17. He learned construction skills while in Guam. He returned stateside to marry Alice Allen Rogers and begin a successful roofing contractor business and to raise three sons. He was forced to retire early due to a life-altering motorcycle accident, which resulted in a permanent head injury and only partial use of his left arm. Following the accident, he later returned to college as well as roofing. He moved to Oregon, where he proudly overcame an alcohol addiction and discovered, to his liking, Gold Beach. While living in Gold Beach, he enjoyed being "Santa" at the former Spada's restaurant. Failing health in 1999 forced him to relocate to Newberg to be near his son, Tim. At age 82, he moved to Newport to live with his son, Tom, and ultimately to receive care at Avamere Rehabilitation. He liked boxing, having been a contender in his weight division for the Merchant Fleet of the Pacific. He enjoyed playing the harmonica, checkers, reading, writing, classical music and the Beatles. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a twinkle in his blue eyes, and a deep love for his sons, Tim, Tom, and Allan. He leaves behind three grandchildren, Corey, Zachary, Nickolas, and two great grandchildren. Bateman Funeral Home in Newport is handling arrangements. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.