Peter D. Jurica

Peter D. Jurica, 91, of Traverse City passed away Friday, January 24, 2014 at Munson Medical Center. Peter was born on June 21, 1922 in Owosso, Michigan to the late Joseph and Kathryn (Zlny) Jurica. After graduating from Owosso High School in 1942, Pete joined the United States Navy. He attended Officer Training School shortly after. In 1947 Pete was honorably discharged and he returned home to Michigan. On March 8, 1945 while on leave from the service, Pete married his high school sweetheart Katherine Virginia Erb. Together they shared 68 years of marriage. As a young man Pete knew he wanted a career that enabled him to enjoy the outdoors. In the early 1950's he started Lake Michigan Hardwood Lumber Company in Leland. He gradually grew the business to a successful company and retired when he was 70 years young. While operating the business he logged thousands of acres in Leelanau County including North Manitou Island over his 45 year career. He was very proud of his environmental stewardship by using selective harvest techniques in forest management. In his spare time he enjoyed golf, fishing, hunting and travelling all over the world. He also enjoyed spending time at the family home in the Florida Keys. Pete was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and was very active in the Men’s Club. Pete is survived by his wife Virginia, children Jane Chmielewski, Martha (William) Paulson, Ronald (Gabriella) Jurica, Mark Jurica and Thomas (Dianne) Jurica. Grandchildren Katherine Chmielewski, William III, Adam, and Alexander Paulson, and Courtney and Peter J.Jurica. Great grandchildren William IV and Layla Paulson, and Andrew, Nathan and Zachary Paulson and brother John Jurica. Pete was preceded in death by his parents and son James Peter Jurica. Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2014 from 2 pm to 7 pm with the Rosary to be prayed at 7:00pm. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 27, 2014 at 11:00am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where he will receive full military honors. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, January 28 at 11:00am at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in memory of Pete may be directed to Safe Harbor which he enjoyed supporting over the past several years. Contributions for masses offered at Immaculate Conception Church in Pete’s name would also be welcomed. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the family. The family is being served by Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Peter D. Jurica

June 21, 1922 - January 24, 2014