11/15/2025
John R. Gorrell Sr., age 74 passed away November 7, 2025. John Robert Gorrell, Sr., of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by family. Born on January 3, 1951, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, John lived a life full of adventure, kindness, and quiet strength.
He attended Elliott Elementary School in Tulsa, Edison Junior High, and graduated from Edison High School in Tulsa in 1970. John was baptized at First Presbyterian Church in Tulsa on March 30, 1951, and remained a man of faith throughout his life.
John retired from Cust-O-Fab in Sand Springs, where he worked in Quality Control. A former member of the Elks Lodge, he was known for his strong work ethic and generous spirit. He loved the outdoors and found joy in fishing, snow skiing, riding motorcycles, his animals, and woodworking. He approached life with courage and optimism—his motto: “Everything is an adventure.”
After undergoing radiation treatment for vocal cord cancer in 2013, John poured his energy into building birdhouses, which he donated to St. Francis Children’s Hospital for young patients to decorate, and to the American Therapeutic Riding Center in Sand Springs for children with special needs. His creativity and compassion touched many lives.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Susan, whom he married on August 20, 2000, at Stubblefield Chapel in Shawnee, Oklahoma. He is also survived by his children: John R. Gorrell, Jr. (Betsy), Carolyn Sehorn (Chris), and Isaac Gorrell (Julia); his brother, Ben Gorrell (Kathy); and his grandchildren: John Free Gorrell, Maegan Gorrell, Cort Strom, Alexis Sehorn, Gavin Sehorn, Micah Sehorn, Emmett Sehorn, Nola Gorrell, Parker Gorrell, and Brynn Gorrell. He also leaves behind his stepchildren, Joshua Updegrove and Zachary Updegrove (Marcella) , all of whom he loved dearly.
John will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his generous heart, and his unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the joy he brought to others.
For those unable to attend the service live webstream available:https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/117397
https://www.mogro.co/obituary/john-gorrell
John R. Gorrell Sr., age 74 passed away November 7, 2025. John Robert Gorrell, Sr., of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by family. Born on January 3, 1951, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, John lived a life full of adventure, kindness, and quiet strength. He attended Elliott Elementary School in Tu...
