Guy Thurlow

Guy Thomas Thurlow of Gladwin, Michigan passed away peacefully, at home on Saturday, September 7th 2024 with his wife by his side. Guy was born at Fort Knox Kentucky on September 9th, 1954 to James and Nancy (Sheehan) and lived a life with few dull moments.

For most of his childhood, Guy lived and attended school in West Branch but spent summers in Gladwin working on his grandfather’s farm. He eventually moved to Gladwin permanently in 1973. After school, Guy attended auctioneer school in Indiana, but preferred to be a ringman for his uncle and best friend, Ken Thurlow from time to time.

Guy was employed at Flynn Lumber and Supply Co. where he proudly told the story of how Ray Flynn hired him and remained loyal to the company for 40 years. Guy had a fork truck at work he called “his” (at one point someone even put his name on the side) and could often be found assisting (or socializing with) customers and loading and unloading trucks. Guy was a deeply dedicated, hard worker and rarely missed a day. Flynn’s also had a special place in Guy’s heart because it is also where he met his wife and soulmate, Maureen (Cote’). As Maureen was being introduced to the staff in the back, Guy boldly pointed his finger at her and said, “I'm going to marry you someday.” Maureen replied, “No you’re not; you’re too short!” Needless to say it didn’t deter Guy. On September 26th, 1980 Guy and Maureen were married in Gladwin at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and soon welcomed a daughter (Sharon) and a son (James). Guy and Maureen were united in marriage for forty four years and built a life and family they were extremely proud of.

Racing horses was Guy’s passion. In 1982 Guy was the winning jockey of the Michigan Derby aboard a horse named Samsun. When he quit riding, he then pursued Standardbred racing. During the summer of 1996 Guy won 14 out of 15 races with his horse, Rompaway Major in the Free For All Trot, was recognized by Michigan Harness Horsemen and carried many fair track records. He spent countless hours jogging, training and racing his horses and enjoyed the time spent at the track with his family, friends and occasionally a few cold beers.

Guy was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting and spending time in the woods. Hunting and shooting with his grandsons was especially dear to him. He also spent a fair share of time on the water. Guy enjoyed fishing with his dad and son on the Bay as well as ice fishing on Wiggins and Pratt Lake.

Charismatic, quick witted and devoted, easily described Guy. You never had to guess where you stood with him, because he always let you know. He was a friend to many and even if he didn’t know you, easily struck up a conversation. If he recognized your vehicle coming down the road, he probably swerved a little towards your lane, then waved and smiled as you passed. Guy thought a little “goose” was good fun to any unsuspecting friend and was a fantastic dancer on the dance floor. Although his love for laughter, witty sense of humor and hardworking attitude will be passed on for generations to come, they will also be deeply missed.

Guy is survived by his wife: Maureen; daughter: Sharon Koscielski; son: James (Kelley) Thurlow; grandchildren: Gracie Thurlow, Averie Thurlow, Kaden Koscielski, and Bryson Thurlow; step-mother: Linda Thurlow; brother: Michael Thurlow; sisters: Julie (Bill) Drumm and Jamie (Mark) Feldman; mother-in-law: Carol Cote’; brother-in-laws: Tom (Beverly) Cote’, Dave (Amy) Cote’, and Joe Cote’; and several nieces and nephews

Guy is preceded in death by his parents: James and Nancy; father-in-law: Harry Cote’; sister-in-law: Sharon Cote’; nephew: Tanner Cote’; and numerous aunt and uncles.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Gladwin. Funeral Services will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11:00 A.M at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Gladwin, followed by a graveside service at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. A Celebration of Life luncheon will also take place following the service at the Gladwin County Sportsman’s Club. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com