Harold Robert Yurk

Harold Robert Yurk, age 94, of Clio, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026, at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital in Grand Blanc. Surrounded by his children, he died after a valiant two-year battle with cancer.

Harold was born on November 14, 1931, in Flint, Michigan, to John and Anna Jurk. He spent his early childhood in Reese, Michigan, during the aftermath of the Great Depression before his family returned to Flint in 1940. A graduate of Flint Northern High School, Harold was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952 during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After earning his journeyman’s card as a cabinetmaker, he worked in his father’s cabinet shop until he entered the Army. Upon returning from military service, Harold built houses with two of his brothers and later worked for various builders and contractors throughout Flint. On April 28, 1956, Harold married Erseldeane “Deane,” with whom he shared 43 years. In 1964, he began a career as a skilled-trades carpenter at Buick, retiring after 32 years of service. He was a member of UAW Local 599.

Among Harold’s greatest pleasures was tending his beloved garden, where he planted many varieties of vegetables and grew his tomato plants from seed. An avid outdoorsman and hunter, he owned property in Alpena and traveled with his son Rob to three U.S. states and four Canadian provinces in pursuit of big game. Fishing was another lifelong passion, especially trips with family and friends, including fly-in excursions to Canada beginning in the 1960’s.

Family remained at the heart of Harold’s life. Affectionately known as “Poppy” to his grandchildren, he treasured attending sporting events with his son Russ and cheering on his grandchildren at activities such as cheerleading and volleyball. His travels often centered on spending time with loved ones in Georgia, Wisconsin, Florida, and beyond. For 11 years, Harold worked alongside his sons to build and race Soap Box Derby cars. In his later years, he took particular delight in dining out with anyone willing to join him-always bringing along his own salad dressing.

Harold is survived by his children, Andrea (Ray) Curnow, Robert (Beverly) Yurk, and Russ (Katy) Yurk; grandchildren, Jilayne (Brian) Jessup, Terance Curnow, Michael Yurk, Rebecca (David) Farris, and Karen (Michael) Dankert; eleven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and 30 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Erseldeane, affectionately known as “Nommie” to her grandchildren; his partner, Mazie Markle; 11 brothers and sisters; and many friends from Buick Motor Division.

A celebration of Harold’s life will be held on October 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek, Michigan 48473. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Flint Soap Box Derby.

By mail: Flint Soap Box Derby, 615 S. Saginaw Street, Suite 6003, Flint, MI 48502

Online: https://www.flintsoapbox.org/donate

Harold will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.