John Alfred Gulick of Eureka, passed away in his home at Tonovay, Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the age of 84. He was born Sept. 26, 1939, in Muskogee, Okla., the son of Francis Henry and Ruby L. (Norwood) Gulick. As a child, the family moved several times before settling in Eureka. John completed 7th grade and started 8th grade, saying, “I went in the front door and out the back.” He then began driving a truck and working in the oilfields. Eventually, he went to work driving for Maclaskey Oil, until he met his beloved Mary. On June 20, 1959, John was united in marriage to Mary Ann Altis, in Concordia. Together they raised their five children, continuing to work until John was able to purchase his own truck, and he and Mary began John’s Trucking. They continued to run the business until he retired.
Once retired, John and Mary purchased Tonovay School and opened a flea market and antique store. In his spare time, John enjoyed leather tooling and cabinetry. When he retired a second time, John and Mary opened JMAG Kennels and spent many years raising dogs.
John is survived by Mary, his wife of almost 65 years; five children: Billy Ray Gulick of Leon; Connie and husband, Jack Holland of Yates Center; Crystal and husband, Bob Bumgardner of Eureka; Robert and wife, Teresa Gulick of Eureka; and John P. and wife, Rhonda of Eureka; 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jim and wife Barbara Gulick of Andover.
He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, one brother and two grandchildren.
Cremation has been effected, with no services at this time.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the American Diabetes Association or to the American Heart Association. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at koupfunerals.com.
