Fred Douglas Shurn Award

The Fred Douglas Shurn Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a member of our family. Established in 1997 during the St. Louis Family Reunion, it was quickly embraced as an annual tradition.
This award recognizes a family member who demonstrates:
  • Lifelong dedication to supporting the reunion,
  • Outstanding moral character within the family and community, and
  • Christian spirit and leadership in daily life.
The award is named in memory of Fred Douglas Shurn, affectionately known as Uncle Doug. He and his wife, Lilly, made their home in Benton Harbor, Michigan, for most of their adult lives. Though they had no children, Uncle Doug played a vital role as one of the founding members of our family organization. His commitment and stewardship—particularly in maintaining the early Family Reunion “Book” of records, finances, and addresses—ensured the survival and growth of our gatherings.
Each year, the reunion host chapter selects the recipient of this honor. To preserve fairness, members of the host chapter are not eligible to receive the award.

Past Shurn Award Recipients
Highest Award Achievable