Lester Hayes Gurney, 80, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at The Towne House Retirement Community. Les was born in New York City, NY on November 16, 1945, to the late Lester Sawyer Gurney III and Edith Walberg.

Les spent his entire professional career as a third-generation power engineer with Indiana & Michigan Electric Company (now AEP), where he was known for his steady service and good humor. He earned his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Valparaiso University, where he met his late wife, Dana Ault Gurney. They were married on June 22, 1968, in Fulton, Indiana.

Les was part of a five-generation family tradition in Freemasonry and was a Master Mason and longtime member of McCulloch Lodge No. 737 in Marion, Indiana, with additional affiliation through the Scottish Rite and Salaam Shriners.

He was an active member of the Kiwanis Club for 25 years, including service as Secretary. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and with Boy Scouts of America Troop 433 in Marion, Indiana, where he served as Treasurer and volunteer. Les was a proud member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) for more than 50 years.

Faith was an important part of Les’ life. He was a longtime member of Westminster Presbyterian Church of Marion, IN, and he was currently a member of First Presbyterian Church in Fort Wayne.

Les is survived by his son, Allen Gurney of Portland, OR; daughter-in-law, Beth Levy of Portland, OR; grandchildren, Ebba Gurney and Soren Gurney of Ann Arbor, MI; brother-in-law, Carl Ault of Rochester, IN; sister-in-law, Rita Ault of Rochester, IN, and several nieces, nephews, and their children. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dana Gurney, and his son, Kenneth Gurney.

A Celebration of Life will take place at The Towne House Retirement Community Chapel, 2209 St Joe Center Road, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM with memorial visitation beginning at 1:30 PM. Preferred memorials may be directed to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Arrangements are by FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services.