Major (Retired) Furman N. Gunter

Major (Retired) Furman N. Gunter, 85, of Seale, Alabama passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Gunter was born May 9, 1930 in Palatka, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Mollie Gunter, his son, Gary Wayne Gunter, his brothers, Royce Gunter, Lawrence Gunter, and Robert Gunter, and a grandson, Ryan Frank. He served our country during Korea and Vietnam War in the U. S. Army, retiring after 21 years of service. He was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations including the Purple Heart and The Bronze Star. He ended his army career as Commandant of the Ranger Training Facility at Camp Darby, Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon his retirement, Mr. Gunter purchased land in rural Seale, Alabama. Along with his wife and sons, he built their home and successful hay, cattle, and timber farm. The farm is lovingly referred to as “The Sundowner”. As long as his health allowed, he remained a steward of every square foot of this property. Mr. Gunter was an avid enthusiast of all motor sports including NASCAR, Grand Prix, and motorcycle racing. He, himself, was a rally racer while stationed in France during military deployment. He also enjoyed piloting his 1947 Piper known to us all as 91 Mike .He built a hanger and airfield on his property so he could fly anytime he wished. He rode his motorcycle to Daytona Bike Week for 29 consecutive years. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Theresa V. Marchese Gunter; two sons, Eric (Barbara) of Seale, AL; Daniel (Sharon) of Douglasville, GA; one sister, Betsy Brady of St. Augustine, Florida; two brothers, Kenneth Gunter and Roger Gunter of Palatka, Florida; 4 grandchildren, Theresa (Joel), Danielle, Vincent, Jason Frank (Teresa); 12 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews; extended family and many caring friends. A very special thank-you from the family to Danielle, his granddaughter, and Nick, his great grandson, for their dedicated care and love given throughout his illness. Graveside services with full Military Honors will held 2:30 pm EDT Thursday, May 21, 2015 at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery with Father Dennis Berry officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in the name of Major (Retired) Furman Nelson Gunter