Marshall Lawrence Gurnee

Penn Yan- Marshall Lawrence Gurnee passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, just days before his 87th birthday.

Born on September 25, 1938, to Lawrence Edward and Dora Gurnee, Marshall grew up alongside his beloved sister, Margaret Paradise. He went on to live a remarkable life defined by strength, determination, generosity, and adventure.

Marshall proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1959. After completing active duty, he embraced his adventurous spirit, sailing the seas, panning for gold in Alaska, and later opening a jewelry store and gold mining experience in Charlotte, NY, called *The Prospector*.

His journey then took him to Penn Yan, where he built a homestead, planted grapes, and constructed a round barn that became home to horses, burros, and miniature horses. He was an active leader in 4H, a supporter of Camp Good Days and Special Times, and gave his time and talents to many families in our martial arts community for many years!

A true Renaissance man, Marshall was both artistic and technical. He poured his creativity into restoring grandfather clocks, painting signs for county fairs, restoring horse-drawn coaches, revitalizing long forgotten and abandon cemeteries and countless other projects. His skills and passions touched many lives.

Above all, Marshall was a devoted father.  He deeply cared for and sacrificed for all of his sons. He was present at every game, every event, and every milestone—always giving more than he ever asked in return not just to his family but those he considered family. 

Marshall is survived by his sons, Shane Gurnee, Brian Shares and John Gurnee; and his sister, Margaret Paradise. He is predeceased by his parents, Lawrence Edward and Dora Gurnee.

Marshall was predeceased by his parents and a son, Kenneth Shares.

He will be remembered as a strong-willed man of many talents, a loyal friend, and a loving father whose memory will live on through all those he inspired.

A special thank you to MM Ewing Continuing Care Gardens Avenue staff for their amazing care and attention they provided my father with for 6 years they truly adored this man and always treated him with dignity and respect.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Marshall’s Family.