Julius J. Thurn

He was born on Dec. 14, 1941 in Buffalo, NY, the son of the late Julius S. and Mary (nee Doherty) Thurn. He married the former Patricia Marsh on Apr. 1, 1967 at St. Christopher’s RC Church in Tonawanda, NY.

Julius is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Patricia Thurn; two loving children, Chris ( Cathy) and Sarah Thurn; four cherished grandchildren, Nicholas and Tyler Thurn, Maia and Sofia Schwarzmueller.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a brother, Lawrence M. Thurn.

Julius retired as a Colonel in the U. S. Air Force he was a former 107th Wing Commander in Niagara Falls, NY, a highly distinguished military officer and aviator. Colonel Thurn dedicated over 32 years of service to the United States Air Force and the New York Air National Guard. He was a proud Command Pilot with over 6000 hours flying. Colonel Thurn flew the T-37, T-38, T-33, T-2, A-4, F-100. F-101, F-4, F-16 and the KC-135R. He served with highest distinction in Vietnam in 1968 where he accumulated more than 485 combat hours and 235 combat missions over North and South Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. He survived being shot down by intense enemy ground fire in Vietnam and upon his return home earned multiple awards and recognitions to include the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Silver Star. Later in his career, he also served with distinction throughout the Cold War, Operations in Central America, the Balkans and the Gulf War. Jules was known for his tremendous love for aviation, not only through military flying but also by flying his 1946 Piper J-3 Cub around Western New York with his son. He also was known for his love of his country, his great leadership and his dedication and support of all military members throughout his “Wing”.

As per the Jules wishes services will be private.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hole-Parker Funeral Chapel, 160 Central Ave. Silver Creek, NY. The family suggests memorial contributions in Jules memory be made to Roswell Park cancer Institute.

Please share online condolences at www.holeparkerfc.com.