Ltc John Mccurdy, Army (Ret)

A Celebration of Life service for LTC John Delbert McCurdy, ARMY (Ret), age 85 of Clarksville, will be held Friday, March 19, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Bethlehem United Methodist Church. Pastor Hyeon Hong will officiate. Burial will follow in the Bethlehem UMC Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 18, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sykes Funeral Home and again on Friday from 1:00 PM until the time of service at the church. John passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2021.

John was born on November 5, 1935 in Sidney, MT to Guy and Ruth Gear McCurdy. He retired from the United States Army after 27 years of service and 2 tours in Vietnam. During that time, he earned 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 3 Bronze Star Medals, 32 Air Medals, 1 with Valor device, and many more meritorious recognitions. He was a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a Doctorate of Education from Toledo University. John was the founder and CEO of North Central Institute where individuals pursue an education in aviation maintenance. As a devoted, knowledgeable and inspirational figure, John provided the foundation for individuals to see that success is within reach for those who strive to better themselves. His greatest love was his family and spending time on his farm.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Cindy Plowman. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Arlene McCurdy; daughters, Renee McCurdy and Tamela (Michael) Taliento; sister, Donna Harris; grandchildren: Brian Wadley, Michael Wadley, Britney Winn, Ed Fensholt, Rebecca Fensholt, Christian Taliento, and Emma Vela; and 9 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Please visit John's guestbook at www.sykesfuneralhome.com and share a memory with the family.