Penny Kurre

Penny Milton “PM” Kurre passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024.

He was born Aug. 5, 1934, to Milton Otis and Ruth Penny in Cape Girardeau.

PM spent his formative years in Jackson. He joined the U.S. Navy, Construction Battalion, Seabees — known for their motto “We build, we fight” — in 1951, serving on various Pacific islands during the Korean War, including Guam, Midway, Okinawa and Formosa (now Taiwan).

Returning home, PM married Isabel Jean Evans on Nov. 27, 1955, sharing 68 wonderful years together. Shortly after, he began his distinguished career in the Seabees Naval Reserve, spanning four decades and taking him across the United States. PM’s dedication and expertise earned him the esteemed rank of master chief petty officer, culminating in his role as command master chief in his final assignment.

In addition to his military service, PM owned and operated P.M. Kurre Auto and Equipment, repairing virtually anything with wheels and a motor, assisted by longtime employee Floyd Klipfel, who PM regarded as a member of the family.

PM was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Jackson. He was also involved in various veterans organizations, including Seabee Veterans of America, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. His commitment to service extended beyond his military career, as he played a vital role in organizing Jackson Lions Club and served on Jackson Park Board.

PM’s legacy lives on through his wife, Isabel Jean; his children, Charles (Sarah), Dustin (Susan) and Penny (Paul); his grandchildren, Theo, Collin, Ashlen and Rileigh; and his brother, David (Sharon) Kurre.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Helen Statler, Molly Lowes and Robert Kurre.

His memory will continue to inspire and uplift all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, March 29, at McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

The funeral will start at noon, with Kirk Williams officiating. Burial, with full military honors, will follow in New Salem Cemetery near Daisy.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Presbyterian Children’s Home in Farmington.