Nick Thurman, son of the late Pete Thurman and Guynell Byassee Thurman of East Prairie, was born August 26, 1950, in Anniston, and departed from this life September 2, 2022, at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri at the age of 72.

He served in The United States Navy from August 26, 1968 until August 25, 1972, where he was a firefighter with the crash crew on the U.S.S. America during the Vietnam War. During his time in the service, he was sent to Rio, the Philippines and out to sea. Nick received medals for National Defense and Republic of Vietnam Service for USA. He owned Bootheel Boxing Club, where he coached many boxers before owning and operating Thurman Construction and Cabinets. He had a successful business until ill health forced him to retire.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Erin and Jennifer Thurman of East Prairie; one daughter, Morgan Thurman of East Prairie; one brother and sister-in-law, John and Donna Thurman; four grandchildren, Phillip Messmer, Seth Thurman, Mac Munson and Ty Munson all of East Prairie; one great-grandchild, Ava Messmer.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday September 6, 2022, at 11 a.m. at East Prairie Memorial Park Cemetery with Mike Foster giving the eulogy.

Memorials may be made to the East Prairie Nutrition Center, 304 East Main Street, East Prairie, MO 63845

Mathis Funeral Home in Dexter is assisting with arrangements.