Chester Norman Geurin

Chester “Chet” was born in Wagoner, Oklahoma, on July 26, 1943, to Cletus Russell Geurin and Vera Helen (Hefley) Geurin. He attended Wagoner Public Schools and graduated from High School in 1961. He continued his education at Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and received a Bachelor’s Degree in 1965.

Initially he used his degree in a teaching capacity then entered Officer Candidate School (OCS) with the United States Air Force. The military and flying planes became his love/life and he ended a distinguished career when he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1991. He loved being a pilot and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for actions while in Vietnam as well as other Vietnam service medals and awards.

Chet’s love of adventure was evidenced in many activities he chose, especially when he was younger, such as trying his hand at bull riding at rodeos. He spent his summers while attending college working in McCall, Idaho, for the US Forest Service as a Team Leader of a “Hot Shot” crew who fought forest fires. His adventurous spirit continued into later years when he skydived with his daughter, Emily, at age 70. He loved spending time with his wife and daughters and their families, especially the grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes was playing board games around the table with the family.

He is preceded in death by both parents; sister Ruth Geurin Harris; brother-in-law Robert Turnbow; and sister in laws Peggy Sherbondy and Gina Sanchez.

Chet is survived by his wife of 35 years Brenda Atwood Geurin; daughters Breana (Chris) Phillips and Emily (Scott) Harper; granddaughter Jillian; grandsons Colton, Tyler, and Benjamin; sister Donna Turnbow; sister Maribeth (Gene) Cully; sister Carol (George) Red Boy; brother-in-law Philip Harris; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family.

A memorial service will be held at Porter Loring Mortuary North, San Antonio, Texas, on July 14, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

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