Daniel Glenn Thurston

Daniel G. Thurston, age 71, of Denver, CO. Father of Camille Thurston and Tina Moen, brother of Carol Bowen, Doug Thurston and Hilda Thurston, grandfather of Shelby and Ethan Moen and Bowden Thurston- Albert. Daniel Glenn Thurston was born in Illinois, but grew up in Colorado as the oldest of four siblings. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend. As a child, Dan was smart, kind, and well liked by his peers, earning the title of Head Boy at his junior high and participating in various sports and National Honor Society in high school. Post-graduation, Dan briefly attended college before enlisting into the army, completing Officer Candidate School and becoming a Special Forces Green Beret. He served our country for multiple tours in the Vietnam War where he was injured, earning a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, among other awards and commendations. He returned to finish his education, earning his Bachelors Degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and an MBA from University of Colorado at Boulder. Dan married and became a father to his two girls, Camille and Tina. He was happiest puttering around the house, whether it was working on DIY projects, wood and leather work, cross-stitching, rooting for the Broncos, or reading a good book. The head chef, Dan gave the gift of a well-cooked meal to his family, and continued to share his culinary creations with his grandchildren as well. He loved a good game, Monopoly being a longtime favorite, and even the children weren't spared from his unstoppable winning streaks. Through it all, Dan was most proud of his children and grandchildren and he gave everything he had for them. His heroism, leadership, and bravery in his military career were balanced by his kind and gentle nature in his personal life that everyone who loved him knew so well. He loved well, and he was well loved. A Memorial Reception will be held this Friday from 3 to 6 PM, with military honors at 4 PM, at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 5303 East County Line Rd., Centennial, CO. Memorial donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans Association dav.org. Please share memories of Dan and condolences with the family by signing the guestbook below.