SMSgt. Richard Paul McGurl USAF (Ret.)

Richard Paul McGurl, 85, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on August 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Though we wish his time with us could have lasted longer, the kindness, integrity, and influence he shared will continue to resonate with all who were fortunate to know him.

Richard was born in Arlington, Massachusetts, to James and Alexandra McGurl (née Komenchuk). He spent his childhood in Woburn, Massachusetts, and at the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving for 24 years, including a tour in the Vietnam War. During his career, he commanded a squadron of over 100 men, serving in France, the United States, Spain, and Germany. Richard earned an Associate of Applied Science in Avionic Communication Systems from the Community College of the Air Force and an Associate of Arts in Business Management from the University of Maryland. He also received professional certification in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His military service and academic achievements instilled in him a profound sense of duty and loyalty that he carried into every aspect of his life.

In 1960, while stationed in Phalsbourg, France, Richard met Edith, the love of his life, at a dance. Their connection was immediate and lasting. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and joy, sharing a deep passion for dancing. From the graceful rhythm of a waltz to the lively steps of a jitterbug, Richard and Edith celebrated life, love, and family with every dance they shared.

After retiring from the Air Force as a Senior Master Sergeant with numerous honors, Richard embarked on a 12-year career as a Branch Manager at Service Federal Credit Union at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, where his dedication, professionalism, and genuine care earned the respect and admiration of both colleagues and clients. He later continued his service at Randolph Air Force Base, managing LB&B flight navigational simulators for all branches of the military for an additional 20 years. Richard continued working with dedication until the age of 70. Yet, through it all, his family remained the true center of his life.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Edith McGurl; his two children, Corinne Menchaca (and her husband Jason) and Patrick McGurl (fiancée Elizabeth Harbordt, and her sons, Nikolas and Lukas); his five cherished grandchildren—Austen Yount (and his husband Joshua), Sean Yount, Ryan Yount, Holland McGurl, and Presley McGurl—and one great-grandchild, Paisley Hamilton. To them, he was affectionately “Opa,” a role he cherished as much as any other in life. They all carry forward his love, guidance, and joyful spirit in their hearts, minds, and souls.

He is also survived by his siblings, James McGurl (and his wife Christa) and Alexandria Benullo, for whom his support and love were a constant presence. He was a beloved uncle to Christian McGurl, Tamaris McGurl, David Benullo, Elaine Benullo, and Lisa Benullo. Richard’s circle of love extended far beyond his immediate family, touching the hearts of friends and extended relatives who were drawn to his humility, warmth, and infectious sense of humor. He will also be fondly remembered by his former son-in-law, Steve Yount, and former daughter-in-law, Christina McGurl.

Family and friends will gather to honor a man whose life was defined by his love for family and his boundless zest for life. Though we say goodbye with deep sorrow, Richard’s legacy of love, laughter, and devotion will continue to live on in all who knew him. He was truly extraordinary— a great man.

The family will receive friends for viewing/visitation from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m., on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Porter Loring Mortuary-North (2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232).

A committal service with full military honors will immediately follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery (Shelter 5) at 2:45 pm.

A celebration of Richard's life will follow from 4-7 p.m. at the Las Palapas restaurant located at 4438 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio TX 78247. ( 1604/ O'Connor rd. )