Harry Mursten

Harry was an extremely gifted person. Born in Buffalo, NY he was an expert pianist at the age of three and was performing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra by the age of 9. He was accepted to the Eastman School of Music at age 12 and attended the Julliard School of Music. Ultimately, he decided to pursue a career in business and graduated with a BS degree from the University of Buffalo.

After graduation, Harry moved to Miami where he had a very successful career as a General Contractor and business owner of Mursten Construction overseeing the construction of schools, churches and large big box retail stores in both Dade and Broward counties. Distinguished in his field, Harry served as the President of Associated Builders and Contractors of South Florida and as Vice-President of the National Associated Builders and Contractors, and even received the National Associated Builders and Contractors member of the year award.

Harry embodied a true example of a servant’s heart. He always used his talents to give back to the world and he was revered by his family, friends and community alike. He led delegations of builders to China and the USSR during the cold war era, created a mentoring program for underprivileged youth at risk for dropping out of high school, and through the We Will Build Organization was responsible for the restoration of many churches damaged after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. After his retirement he returned to his musical roots and played numerous concert halls with the beautiful sounds of Bach, Beethoven and his favorite composer Chopin.

After retiring Harry and his wife Margaret moved to the Tallahassee area where they have resided for the past 21 years. His hobbies included flying as an instrument rated pilot, gifting the world with his talented piano playing, and beating everyone and anyone who dared to dream of one day winning a game of Gin Rummy against him.

Harry is survived by his adoring wife of 48 years, Margaret Mursten; Six children: David Mursten, Pam Stuart, Amy Abreu (spouse Victor), Michael Mursten (Anne), Jackie Grossenbacher (Glenn) and Scott Mursten (Michele); And nine grandchildren: Skye Mursten, Victoria & Andrew Abreu, Matthew & Annika Mursten, Nicholas, Jennifer & Jonathan Grossenbacher, and Harrison Mursten.

Services will be held at Wildwood Presbyterian church at 10:58am on Saturday, July 23rd. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Big Bend Hospice.