John N. Yurgel

John N. Yurgel, age 83, of Lawrence County, TN, passed away peacefully at his home on July 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born in Hanover Township, PA, John lived a life full of passion, mastery, and adventure, leaving a lasting legacy in his family and community.

A proud graduate of Bloomsburg University with a degree in education, John dedicated his career to teaching biology at Harry S. Truman High School in Bristol Township, PA. His commitment to education inspired countless students over the years. A true “Jack of all trades,” John mastered everything he set his mind to, from carpentry and car maintenance to a wide array of hobbies that defined his vibrant spirit. He loved the outdoors, excelling in tournament bass fishing, trap and target shooting, reloading, hunting, camping, hiking, and gardening. His creative talents shone through in photography, videography, airbrushing, and Ukrainian wax Easter egg decorating. John also enjoyed square dancing, working with HAM radio, and playing golf in his college years.

John created cherished memories with his sons through his active involvement in Boy Scout Troop #53 in Levittown, PA. His adventurous spirit led him to explore every U.S. state and Canadian province on his Honda Goldwing Aspencade motorcycle. After retiring and building his home in Lawrenceburg, TN, John embraced beekeeping and restoring antique tractors, further showcasing his boundless curiosity and skill.

John’s lifelong dedication to the Masonic community was a cornerstone of his life. He achieved the rank of Master at the Bristol, PA #25 F.&A.M. Masonic Lodge, during its 200th anniversary in 1980, and remained a committed member throughout his life. He also found great purpose in his involvement with the Shriners, including Crescent Shrine and Al Menah, as well as the Crescent Motor Patrol. John was also extremely fond of Native American culture and history as well as their earthy spiritual beliefs.

John is survived by his daughter, Julieann Helen Brown and her husband Robert of Ardmore, TN; his son John Allen Yurgel and his girlfriend Barbara Gini of Sellersville, PA; his son Peter Raymond Yurgel and his wife Lisa of Lumber Bridge, NC; three granddaughters, Amber Marie Pritchard and her husband Damion of Leland, NC, Rosemarie Adaline Yurgel of Leland, NC, and Jessica Lynn Yurgel of Perkasie, PA; two great-grandsons, Peter Victor Pritchard and Arden Kirk Pritchard, both of Leland, NC; and two brothers, Jason Yurgel and his wife Kathie of Valley View, OH, and Mark Yurgel of Hanover Township, PA. A very special mention to the Eckel, Atkisson and the Heatherly families.

A Celebration of Life, hosted by the Mimosa Masonic Lodge #542 in Lawrenceburg, TN, will be announced at a future date. John’s family invites all who knew him to join in honoring his remarkable life when it’s confirmed.

You may share condolences with the family at the Heritage Funeral Home website: www.TnFunerals.com.