Monday, December 2, 2024.
Beloved husband of Christine Kurtz (nee O’Toole); loving father of Jennifer (Brian) Flanagan and Julie Humphrey; cherished grandfather of Kelsey, Kendall and Hudson Flanagan, Alex and Kayla Humphrey; dear brother of Robert (Joanne) Kurtz; dear brother-in-law of Linda (Ray) Young and Colleen (Tom) Vierling. Our dearest uncle, great-uncle, cousin and friend to many.
Mike served honorably in Vietnam as an Army Specialist. He married Christine on May 12th, 1973. They went on to have Jennifer and Julie, making Mike the beloved and devoted father we know today. His children and grandchildren became the light of his life. There was nothing Mike enjoyed more than spending time with his grandchildren. Whether it was attending their games or spoiling them with Froyo, Mike’s dedication to his family was unmatched.
Mike’s love of sports started at a young age. He lettered in three sports at St. Mary’s high school and went on to play basketball at Gonzaga University. When he wasn’t watching the Zags rock the Kennel, you could find Mike on the golf course.
Mike was a kind and gentle man who touched the hearts of all who knew him. He lived his life with humility and integrity. He didn’t just teach us to do the right thing – he showed us, everyday, in the way he treated others and handled life’s challenges. Mike will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and generosity.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, https://www.stlouischildrens.org. This hospital was always near and dear to Mike’s heart for the care they gave to his grand-daughter, Kendall Grace.
Funeral from Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Friday, December 6 at 9:00 am. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation Thursday 4-8 pm.
Am so sorry..your dad was so sweet!!
Mike always treated me with sincere kindness, and a truly thoughtful interest in my life. He was one of the best of Bob’s friends.
The description of Mike the father and family man is exactly as I remember him in high school. He was a gentleman. We went our separate ways after high school, only to cross paths 30 yrs ago. Still the same guy. Rest in peace, Mike. C.W. ’65.
Mike was the epitome, and shining example of a good husband, father and friend. His humility, kindness, and integrity influenced me as a teammate, fellow student, college roommate, and through our adult lives. Mike had a great heart and was profoundly decent human being. Rest well my friend.
Mike was a very good friend to me and my husband. I have been a close friend of Mike and Chris’ for over 50 years. I have always admired him because of his sincerity and honesty. He was truly an example of what an honest, kind hearted, generous, principled man is. He put his wife, kids and grandkids ahead of himself and his joy came from spending time with them. He had lofty ideals and lived them. I loved joking with him, his sarcastic sense of humor, his love of books, his faith, and his patience with me on the golf course. He and I shared our love of Irish history and genealogy. I will miss that smile. The last time I saw Mike, he held my hand and patted it and looked me so sincerely in the eyes and said: “We go back- way, way, back. Don’t we?” And then he slipped back into the fog of his mind. I cherish that moment and many more memories of this outstanding man and I am glad my close friend received the gift of his love as her husband.
What can be said that hasn’t been said already? Mike, your quiet, sweet and humble demeanor is what was most remarkable. Although you had many reasons to be proud and to boast about who you were and so many of your accomplishments, including your beautiful family. But that was not you. You always listened to others stories and accomplishments but rarely talked about yourself, your dreams and accomplishments. You always took sincere interest and care for those around you and never drew attention to yourself. You were extremely intelligent but humble, sincere, caring and loving. You took opportunities to share and teach what you knew to help others gain insight. Your impact will be felt for eternity. Thanks for all the memories, Mike Kurtz!
Love and prayers for you Chris, Jen, Julie and family!