OBITUARY Gordon Cassius Hulburt September 9, 1938 – September 7, 2018 Gordon C. Hulburt, 79, a lifelong resident of Elk Rapids passed away on Friday September 7, 2018 at Meadow Brook Nursing Home in Bellaire after complications of a stroke. He was born on September 9, 1938 in Mancelona, the son of Cassius and Rhea Hulburt. Gordon was a veteran serving in the U.S. Marines.
He was proud to serve his country and as with all members of the U.S. Marine Corps he held true to the motto “once a Marine, always a Marine”. Gordon married his high school sweetheart Darlene Stilson on May 28, 1960 in Elk Rapids, while on leave from the Marines. Together they raised a beautiful family of 5 children, becoming active in the community, school system and athletics.
His wife of 42 years preceded him in death in 2002. After Darlene’s death, while planning their 50th class reunion he kindled a relationship with Janet Hubbell. Their friendship grew and flourished, moving from companionship into love making them life partners for the last 12 years.
Together they blended two families into one, creating a loving bond between all their family members. Gordon cherished the time spent with his family. Providing advice, guidance and direction to those in need.
He was the family rock, everyone valued his opinion. Yet there was also a lighter side, always joking and teasing. Especially with the children.
Coach was an avid sports fan and enjoyed football, baseball, fishing, hunting, camping and traveling. He truly loved the outdoors. He was a coach for the Elk Rapids school football teams for 44 years, filling whatever coaching role was needed.
He helped to guide many young men in the areas of teamwork, sportsmanship, endurance and leadership. A legacy that will endure for generations. Gordon’s career was a machinist, working for 25 years at Super Tool in Elk Rapids.
There he developed lifelong friendships with his coworkers. He is survived by his children; Gordon T. Hulburt, Dale R. Hulburt, Pamela (Mike) Couturier, Vickie Grow, Katrine (Karl) Balch. His companion Janet Hubbell and her children; Tim Hubbell, Terry (Tammy) Hubbell , Jeanne (Tim) Comai, Kathy (Frank) Bussa, Mary Jo (Ken) Campbell, and Rick (Kashy) Hubbell, (22) Grandchildren, and (12) great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Darlene Hulburt in 2002, his brother Richard Hulburt, and sister Janice Hulburt. A Celebration of the Life and Times of Coach Gordon Hulburt will be held on September 15, 2018 at 4:00 PM at Elk Rapids Amvets Post # 114, 410 Bridge St., Elk Rapids, MI 49629. A meal will be served.
Donations may be made in his name to Elk Rapids Athletic Department.
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