Louis Woodrow Gourney

Louis Gourney died of congestive heart failure on Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008, in Fort Walton Medical Center just two days before his 75th birthday.
He was a resident of the Destin/Niceville, Fla., area since 2000 and lived most of his life in Baton Rouge, La., although he was native to Marksville. Born to Irvin and Margaret Gourney in 1933, he was preceded in death by both, as well as his brother, Edward.
Memorial services are set for Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. at Twin Cities Funeral and Cremation Services in Niceville, and for Feb. 4 at 1 p.m. in Port Hudson National Cemetery, La.
Louis was a veteran serving in the Air Force Search and Rescue Unit during the Korean conflict while stationed in England. Coming home to Louisiana with a new bride, Carole E. Cross of Weymouth, Louis began a career with the Baton Rouge Police Department in 1957. He vastly enjoyed the Louisiana landscape and it's natural offerings, which he ensured his children had ample opportunity to appreciate. Remarrying in 1986 to Patricia Colvin he began a new chapter that included what would become beloved stepchildren and stepgrandchildren. Retiring from the Baton Rouge Constable's office in 1992 to his camp in Head of Island, La., Louis enjoyed the bounty of Louisiana's wildlife on a daily basis.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Gourney of Niceville; his son, Glenn Gourney of Zachary, La.; his daughter, Michelle Nelson of Apollo Beach, Fla.; his stepdaughters, Cindy Etheridge of Niceville, and Kathy Colvin of Rockville, Md.; and grandchildren, Erin Gourney, Alex Gourney, Corey Gourney, Madison Gourney of Zachary, and Brandon Etheridge of Niceville, and Victoria Nelson.
Louis spent the last years closely supporting the athletic pursuits of grandson, Brandon Etheridge. He was a father and grandfather who constantly created loving memories.
Arrangements under the direction of Twin Cities Cremation Services and Funeral Home, 1405 John Sims Parkway., Niceville, FL 32578.