Wilbur H. Kurtz 1927-2020
SALEM — Wilbur Henry Kurtz, 93, of Salem, died Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020, at his home.
He was born April 5, 1927, in Salem, the son of the late Earl R. and Mollie (Lehman) Kurtz.
His wife, Ruby M. (Brozell) Kurtz, whom he married July 23, 1950, preceded him in death on Sept. 25, 2019.
Wilbur was a partner with his brother, Edgar, in the Kurtz Farm Dairy for 35 years, until his retirement in 1993. He previously worked as a route salesman for Sealtest Dairy.
He was a 70-year member of the First Friends Church of Salem and served as an usher.
Wilbur was an active member of the Green Township firefighters for 54 years and a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity until he was 80 years-old. He and Ruby enjoyed many years as members of the Salem Square Wheels Square Dance Club.
He was a 1945 graduate of Greenford High School and proudly served in the Ohio National Guard and the U.S. Merchant Marines.
Wilbur and Ruby raised gladiolus flowers, taking bouquets to individuals at their homes during illnesses and to nursing home residents. He also graciously shared the bounties of his garden with friends, family and neighbors.
Survivors include his daughter, Debra K. (Sam) Grate of Salem; a son, Donald E. (Karen) Kurtz of Hartville; grandchildren, Kassidy and Raegan Kurtz, Titus (Hanna) Kurtz, Mollie (Charlie) Welling, Valerie (Dominic) Williams and Angela (Matthew Heim) Grate; great-grandson, Elliott Kurtz; and brother, Edgar Kurtz.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Anna Marie Kurtz; and brother, Raymond Kurtz.
Services will be held Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, at 12:30 p.m. at the First Friends Church, 1028 Jennings Ave., Salem, with the Rev. Pete Fowler officiating.
Calling hours will be held 10 a.m. to noon, prior to the service.
Burial will be in Locust Grove Cemetery.
Donations may be made, in Wilbur’s name, to First Friends Church Building Fund, 1028 Jennings Ave., Salem, OH 44460.
The family would like to thank Wilbur’s several home health aides for their excellent care which allowed him to remain in his home for his final days.
If unable to attend you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program where your message will be attached to a balloon in the church to remind the family of your love and support at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.
You are now able to share your respects and memories with the family with a recorded video message at https://www.starkmemorial.com/virtualhugs.
Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Salem.
To view Richard’s obituary or send condolences, visit www.starkmemorial.com.
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