Garrett Paul Thurber

Garrett “Geep” Thurber, age 56, passed away on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at his home in Knoxville, TN. Geep was born on February 8, 1965 in Milwaukee, WI to Bruce and Carol Thurber. Taking after his dad, Geep became an avid golfer at a young age, and played collegiate golf at Whitewater University. He was raised in the Lutheran faith, and carried with him, his strong beliefs in God in every aspect of life. Geep married his wife of 34 years, Karen, on May 2, 1987. Together, they had three children: Zach, Chelsea, and Jacob. He was also a proud grandpa to this four grandchildren: Caroline, Harper, Brody, and Vivienne Thurber. Geep had a very successful career in business leading up to his various health issues. After suffering a stroke at age 39, he could no longer travel for his job and had to stop working. He suffered from chronic pancreatitis, and eventually had his pancreas and spleen removed, as well as an islet cell transplant. Following this major surgery, he continued to experience various and constant health issues; however, he never complained and truly lived his life to the fullest. Geep loved boating during his time living in Florida - making memories on the weekends with his family. He loved golf, and enjoyed golf outings with his sons, friends, and other family members. He also enjoyed traveling, family vacations, fishing, spending time outside, and bonding with his grandchildren. He was a generous, kind, and loving man, and would give his shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a loyal son and friend, and devout Christian. He is preceded in death by his father, Bruce Thurber, and brother-in-law, Mark Pulkownik. He is survived by his wife, Karen Thurber; three children, Zach Thurber and wife, Danielle Thurber, Chelsea Peterman and husband Zach Peterman, and Jacob Thurber; his mother, Carol Thurber; his sisters, Stephanie Pulkownik, Heidi Gottwald and husband John Gottwald; his four grandchildren, Caroline (7), Harper (6), Brody (3), and Vivienne (7 mo) Thurber. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Kathleen Marsh, and brother-in-law, Jim Marsh, several nieces and nephews, uncles, and cousins. A visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM on Friday, April 23, 2021 at Mynatt Funeral Home located at 4131 East Emory Road, Knoxville, TN 37938. The celebration of life service will be at 4:00 PM following the visitation of friends and family. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to the charity of your choice. Two organizations that were dear to Geep were the Haiti Mission, Inc. and Lutheran Hour Ministries. Condolences for the family may shared at www.mynattfh.com.