Bob Neuman
This delightful couple has resided in SunBird for 23 years and have seen many changes during that time. But none have dulled their enthusiasm or gratitude for being among the friendly and unpretentious residents. “We feel God led us here,” offered Donna.
Colorado natives George and Donna Loury became acquainted early in their lives when both families attended the same church. The couple each had a brother, stay at home mothers, and providing fathers. Both attended the same public schools, Donna following George by a few grades. Eventually marriage followed.
After attending the University of Colorado and University of Denver, George had earned an MBA. He served as president of Norgren Company, a pneumatic equipment manufacturer, then retired after 28 years.
A USAF first lieutenant (1954-58), he flew C-124s. “This was between the Korean and the Viet Nam conflict,” he said.
Donna received her BA degree at Colorado State College and a MA from Denver University. After graduation, for three years she became supervisor of student teachers. She recalled, “I had about 20 to look after each time.” Her decision was to remain at home to care for her husband and five children. Now there are fifteen grandchildren.
George and Donna were involved in the early organization and leadership of the SunBird Community Church, initiating the potluck and the hymn sing and the Maundy Thursday communion service. Donna also taught a women’s bible study for many years.
They have been part of various Christian mission projects – helping build a Juarez, Mexico orphanage, an annex for the Chandler Latin American Nazarene Church, and tutoring school programs at the Salvation Army Center in Chandler.
Donna was an early president of the SunBird Garden Club and initiated house tours to raise funds for that group. She also worked on the grant program to landscape SunBird property along Cooper Road.
She is with a women’s painting group that meets in the SunBird Clubhouse weekly. She specializes in Norwegian folk art painting (rose mauling) and has beautiful examples of her art throughout her home.
Both commented, “Music has been an important part of our lives since retiring.” For example, George, who is self-taught, plays baritone, accordion and trumpet. For Donna it’s concert bell. They were part of the New Horizon Band that provides entry points to music making for adults. Additionally, they are in the Tower Point Concert Band. Both have sung with the SunBird Singers for years. George added, “Once a week we join others in a living room and jam, playing the ‘golden oldies’.”
They enjoy golf, the Denver Broncos, and travel. George has been throughout the world with his business. There also have been river cruises in Europe. It’s back to Denver in the summer.
One is aware of their easy contentment when in the company of this couple who has experienced and achieved many things. As George summarized, “We’ve been blessed with a good life, both before and after retirement.”