Dean Schurz

SACATON — Dean M. Schurz, 79, a Pima-Maricopa Gila River Indian Community member, died on Sept. 14, 2011, in Casa Grande.
Mr. Schurz was a Marine Corps combat veteran of the Korean War and was very proud of his service. He attained the rank of sergeant. He attended college at Haskell Institute in Kansas and Arizona State University. He was a welder in many jobs but worked lastly at Gila River Farms for more than 35 years before retiring in 2009. He served his community as a District 3 councilman in the 1970s.
He was adventurous and liked to travel. He visited South Carolina, California and Washington, D.C., among other places. He loved thrill rides such as roller coasters. His goal was to have an aerobatic experience and he accomplished that a few years ago. He enjoyed his eternal youth. He loved his family but loved the Lord even more and knew Christ as his savior.
He is survived by a son, Myron G. Schurz; a grandson and granddaughter; and five great-grandchildren. He also had numerous relatives in Pee Posh/Maricopa Colony and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
He will lie in state at the Gila River Indian Community council chambers, 525 Gu U Ki in Sacaton, on Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. A program honoring and remembering his life will be conducted. The funeral will be Friday at 7 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Sacaton. Interment will be in Sacaton East Cemetery.
J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.