Clifton Lee Gurr

Clifton Lee Gurr, known as "Kippy" or "Kip" to family and friends in his younger years, 94, of Viera, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026.

Born February 24, 1932, in Jacksonville, Florida, Clif was the son of the late George Walter Gurr and Mary Woodell Gurr. He graduated from Landon High School before serving in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict, stationed in Japan.

After completing military service, Clif earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Engineering from the University of Florida, graduating with honors. He remained a lifelong proud Gator.

In his career with Martin Marietta, he rose to Chief Engineer and Manager of Engineering during the Titan rocket program. He received numerous awards for his contributions. A Registered Professional Engineer, Class I General Contractor, and Threshold Inspector, he remained active long after retirement, contributing to condominium and residential projects throughout Florida's east coast and helping develop numerous communities in Brevard County.

Engineering was more than a profession, it was Clif's passion. He had an exceptional mind for numbers. He enjoyed Sudoku, daily crossword, following the stock market, and a good game of bridge.

As a young man, he owned and operated a sportfishing charter boat out of Port Canaveral, and throughout his life he enjoyed boating and other water activities. He and his wife, Sheila, traveled extensively but were equally content spending quiet time at home. He was an avid New York Yankees fan, faithfully followed Gator football, enjoyed watching golf, and had a special affection for animals, especially his beloved miniature pinscher, Peanut.

Professionally, Clif was a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and was active with the Canaveral Council of Technical Societies (CCTS) which sponsors Space Congress. He was also a prior member of the Moose and Elks lodges.

Clif was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Tommy Gurr and Jimmy Gurr; and his daughters, Wynne Rosseau and Dicksie Carlini.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila Gurr, of Viera, Florida; his daughters, Lee Ann Padgett of Gainesville, Florida, Kippy Brunty of Merritt Island, Florida, Danielle Bursk of Langhorne, Pennsylvania, and Kristi Wolf of Royersford, Pennsylvania; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Clif will be remembered for his brilliant mind, quiet wit, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering work ethic. Whether he was designing complex engineering projects, studying the markets, cheering on the Gators or Yankees, or working a crossword puzzle, he approached life with intelligence and determination.

Clif will be interred at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, Florida. Services will be private.