Bernard Stephen Thurik

Bernard Stephen Thurik left this world for the kingdom of Heaven on June 6, 2019, at the age of 75.

“Bernie” was born March 30, 1944, in Youngstown, Ohio to Stephen and Rose Thurik. He and his older sister grew up near Poland where Bernie attended Poland-Seminary High School. His graduating class of 1962 included his dear, lifelong friend Jarrett Slaven.

After 3 years of college, Bernie was drafted into the US Army in 1966 during the Vietnam War. His basic training was completed at Ft. Gordon, GA. This was followed by combat training at Ft. Knox where he was assigned to the Fifth Training Brigade, seventeenth battalion, company B and rose to the rank of Sergeant. He fought in the Vietnam combat and proudly served his country until being honorably discharged in 1968.

After the military, Bernie went on to complete his Bachelor of Science in 1973 at Youngstown State University. He worked in banking until his career led him to back to supply management, a discipline acquired in the Army. In 1978 Bernie and his family relocated to Arlington, Texas where he accepted a position with General Dynamics. The move allowed him to reconnect with his cousin, Kathy (Walton) whose family was already in the area.

In 1989 Bernie was transferred to a Tulsa project and relocated to Owasso, Oklahoma. He remained a part of the country’s aerospace supply chain until his retirement. In 2014, he moved into the Claremore Veteran’s Center where he formed many close ties with new friends and caregivers.

Bernie loved classic (and fast) cars and was fond of collecting firearms and weaponry. He seldom backed down from a DIY project or a good meal and had a special place in his heart for his pets. He adored his childhood pooch Daisy (a Chihuahua mix), his shadow and partner-in-crime Gorgeous (an English Bulldog), little Cupcake (a mutt) who was his daughter’s pet and his trusty guard dog, Tawny (a Rottweiler). Bernie’s close circle of friends from back in Youngstown remained close & stayed in contact throughout his lifetime but his closest bonds were with his family. He enjoyed spending time with his sister’s family and doted on both of his nieces. He was a devoted father and best friend to his only daughter. They were two peas in a pod who shared years of laughter, stubbornness and dogs. Although Bernie struggled with multiple sclerosis, he always maintained his cheerful disposition, positive attitude and smile. He enjoyed and inspired everyone around him.

Bernard is survived by his daughter, Valerie Thurik of Owasso; sister, Marcella and husband Mike Marinelli of Boardman; niece, Loraine Tuttle of Cocoa Beach; niece, Michele Garman of Vienna and countless dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Rose Thurik.

A Gathering to Celebrate Bernie's life will be held 2:30 PM Saturday, June 22, 2019 at the Claremore Veterans Center Chapel, 3001 W. Blue Starr Drive, Claremore, OK 74017.

Graveside services and mass will be held at a later date at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, OH In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Bernie’s honor and memory to one of the following organizations Bernie was passionate about, Tulsa SPCA, Wildheart Ranch, Canines for Christ or Karing K9's Therapy Dogs.

Arrangements were entrusted to Schaudt Tulsa Funeral Service. Family and friends may view the obituary and leave condolences online, www.schaudtfuneralservice.com.