Donald J. Thurston, 79

GILFORD — Donald “Don” Jon Thurston, 79, of High View Circle, passed away, on Jan. 4, 2026, at his home.

Don was born on Sept. 10, 1946, in Leominster, Massachusetts, the son of the late A. Donald Thurston and Joan E. (née Killelea) Thurston.

Don loved his family very much. They were his priority and life’s purpose. Don also loved being at Merrymeeting Lake where he met his wife Sandra while summering at his family’s camp. He also enjoyed boating, a Sunday drive, skiing, hiking or just taking a walk. He and Sandra were members of the Winter Harbor Yacht Club on Welch Island for many years. One favorite thing to do was to enjoy a boat ride with friends and family, while being tour director on Lake Winnipesaukee. The tour would often include a great lunch at Joe Green’s in Wolfeboro.

Don was co-owner of Thurston Marina, Weirs Beach.

Don is survived by sons Christopher J. Thurston (Heather) of Thornton, and Ryan E. Thurston (Tabitha) of Gilford; daughter Kimberly A. (Thurston) Boyarsky of Huntington, Vermont; grandchildren Ian Boyarsky, Caitlin Boyarsky, Adam Boyarsky and Jyllian Thurston; brothers Jeffrey (Peggy) Thurston of Gilford, Bruce (Karen) Thurston of Gilford, Mark (Pamela) Thurston of Sanbornton, and David (Cathie-Ann) Thurston of Laconia; sister Pamela (Dave) Thurston Perkins of Moultonborough; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his wife, Sandra “Sandie” Mae Thurston, who passed in May of 2025.

Per Don’s wishes, there will be no services.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.