Tony John Hurkmans

Resided in Escanaba, MI
Died November 25, 2021

Tony John Hurkmans, age 61, of Escanaba, passed away tragically Thanksgiving evening, together with his significant other Kelly Piquette on November 25, 2021 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Tony was born on September 16, 1960, in Escanaba, the son of Anthony Hurkmans and Janice (Beach) Coyle. He was raised in Escanaba and was a graduate of Escanaba High School. Following high school, Tony enlisted in the United States Navy where he served until his honorable discharge. Following his enlistment, Tony returned to Escanaba where he made his home and began his family. Tony worked as a truck driver and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Tony was a notorious prankster and loved to make his friends and family laugh. Tony was known for his giving and loyal heart. Tony enjoyed volunteering his time to the community by bell-ringing for the salvation army and providing meals on wheels for the elderly during the holidays. Tony loved to spend time with his grandchildren and most everyone he came across would hear him brag about how amazing his grandkids and daughter’s are. Tony also loved and cared for his adorable dog, Gizmo.

Tony is survived by his Father, Anthony (Sonya) Hurkmans, Daughters: Debra (Chris) Haley and Ashley (Josh) Solis, Brothers: Thomas (Debora) Hurkmans Sr., Terry (Liz) Hurkmans and Lee Olson, Sisters: Janice (Barney Christiansen) Hurkmans and Jayne (Don) Austin, Grandchildren: Zach, Sydney, Jordan, Braxton, Ryder, Brandon, Jordan, and Mikaila, Former Spouse: Julie (Lisa Kerr) Hurkmans, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tony was preceded in death by his Mother, Janice Coyle and Brother, Thomas Hurkmans Sr.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, December 4, 2021, from 12:00PM to 3:00PM, at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military rites will follow visiting hours at 3:00PM, at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba, with the Gladstone American Legion presiding. A time of sharing and funeral services will follow military rites. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.

25 Tributes for “Tony John Hurkmans”

    I love you Grandpa. You left us way too soon. Wish we could’ve spent even 5 more minutes with you. I know you’ll be looking down on me and I hope I make you proud!

    Tony always had a smile and hug when meeting. Our deepest sympathy to all his family. With Love and Prayers. Sandy and Rayo

    My deepest condolences to all the family that loved him so dearly.
    My very strongest prayers for God to comfort.
    He is resting in perfect Peace and will always be your Angel.

    We are so sorry for your loss. So sad at this season. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Love to all esp to Terry and Lizz.

    First I would like to extend my sympathy and love 2, uncleTony, Ashley, Debra, Jan,Jayne, Terry,Lee, and families.

    1 of the first thing I think of when I think of Tony it says smile he had a special smile for sure and you could just see in his heart and soul that that smile was genuine. I read pet people thought he was a prankster and I have to agree fully. One thing that comes to mind right away is what are the times I saw him in the grocery store we stopped and talked as always and he had a way of looking right at you and doing something that seems like it had to be behind your back but yet you were looking right at him. So as we talked and he looked right into my face as always I realized that while we were standing looking at each other he was also filling my cart with all sorts of groceries. It was I could not believe I did not even see him doing it and we laughed and laughed. I could probably write a book but I just thought I would share the first thing that came to mind because his being a prankster was such a big part of him you just never knew what was coming. Tony I sure love you,I will never forget your smile and I will for ever remember your hugs. Sleep peaceful for always….

    We are so sad to hear of Tony’s passing. He always had a smile . We had alot of great times together through the years. Sympathy and prayers to all the family. Pete, Irma and Mason

    Ashley, hang tough, you got this. I know its so very hard to handle the loss of your father and his significant other. I always have a shoulder and a hug for you. I will say lots of prayers for you and families in hopes that you are comforted by them. Love you lots!! Hugs, Hugs, Hugs!!!!

    May you all find peace in the loss of your loved one. My prayers for comfort are with you all and my heart hurts for you.

    Although my heart is broken and I feel numb, my heart and Prayers go out to everyone in our family, as Tony was a huge part of each of our lives. RIP my baby brother, I will miss your hugs, your smile, your laugh, your jokes, and everything else about you. I’m Thankful for all of our memories. Big Hugs XOXOX. God Bless

    Tony was my 1st cousin. We lost touch over the years but I have fond memories of him as a child… I also was born in September 1960, he was older by 11 days. My Uncle Tony and my dad Nicholas Hurkmans used to get the families together when were children. We all grew apart.. God Bless you Tony I know your mother (Aunt Jan to me) is welcoming you with open arms into heaven.. May you always have that quick sense of humor about you.. Love you cuz…

    We are so sorry for the loss of your son, dad, brother, uncle, friend. He was special to so many and he will remain in your hearts always. He is now resting peacefully in the arms of his savior and will forever watch over you all and is only a thought away. May God bless each of you with peace and strength in the days ahead. Our love and prayers are with you in this most difficult time.

    Back in 1978, my husband, Arthur was in the US Navy, assigned to the USS Juneau, which was based in San Diego, California. That year, the ship went into dry docks in Portland, Oregon. Tony, Arthur and I decided to rent an apartment together to save money during that time. With Tony from Escanaba and us from the Missouri Ozarks, we learned a lot from each other despite our different backgrounds. We were all very young, fresh out of high school and now Navy brats. Oh, the bond we shared as we struggled through life, sharing laughter or tears together, or just becoming another victim of Tony’s infamous pranks. Tony was the first person besides us to hold our newborn son when I came home from the hospital there in Portland. He never forgot that, proudly boasting the fact even as my son entered his 40’s. While back down in San Diego, we both had new baby girls added to our families. Precious memories we have all shared! What a true friend Tony was, he meant so much. We kept in touch through the years, and I was ever-so-lucky to be able to fly up to Escanaba 4 years ago to visit. I am so heartbroken that God has called Tony away so soon, but I know we will all reunite again within God’s holy presence in our new heavenly home. My heart and prayers go out to you Debra and Ashley, all of Tony’s family, his friends, and those beloved grandkids of his. God bless you Tony. Thanks for being you. Love you brother. ❤

    Dear Janice “Jan” and Family,

    Our deepest condolence to you and yours. May your Brother rest in eternal peace.

    ❤,
    -John & Jan (Kidd) Dahn;

    .+JMJ+.

    ❤
    (sat18dec2021)

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