James R. Gurlen

GURLEN, James R. 79, of Tampa, "Jim Bob" completed his life mission Aug. 20, 2010. He was born in Gideon, MO, on Oct. 16th, 1930 to Clarence and Bernice Gurlen. Raised in southeast MO, graduated from Deering High School. Jim Bob proudly served in the Air Force for 28 years in the Air Weather Service. Serving in the south pacific during the Korean War; subsequent duty stations included Illinois, England, Germany, Georgia, West Virginia, Virginia, Greenland and retiring in Tampa with an honorable discharge as a Senior Master Sergeant in 1978. After retirement he continued his work in weather services to the age of 76. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jean Holcombe, of Bragg City, MO; children, Steven, James, Byron, Rhonda, and Randall; seven grandchildren, Samuel, Lydia, Steven, Gillian, Jennifer, Travis and Jeffrey; three great-grandchildren, Mia, Aiden and Soren; brother Mike and extended family. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the LifePath Hospice burgundy team for the care provided during his last days. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, 813-871-8111. Graveside Service will be held 11 am, Friday Aug. 27, 2010 at the Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. Words of comfort may be expressed at floridamortuary.net 813- 237-2900