CHESHIRE – Earl J. Kurtz Jr., 81, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024, at MidState Medical Center in Meriden. He was the husband of Lauri (Armbruster) Kurtz.
Mr. Kurtz was born June 21, 1942, in Waterbury, son of the late Earl J. Sr. and Ruth (Barto) Kurtz. He, along with three generations of family members, owned and operated Kurtz Farms in Cheshire, something he was very proud of.
Earl graduated from Cheshire High School in 1960, serving as the senior class president, then received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut in 1964. He taught History and English at Cheshire High School, while also working on the family farm. After several years, he left teaching and followed his true passion full time at the family business.
Earl was a dedicated member of his town, becoming a founding member of the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and served as its second president. He was a Paul Harris Fellow in the Rotary International. He also served many years on the Inland-Wetlands commission, presently as its chairman.
Along with his civic involvements, Earl was supportive of several charitable organizations in town, including the Cheshire Community Food Pantry, and any activity or fundraiser in which his children and grandchildren were involved.
Throughout his years, Earl enjoyed a good card game, whether it be setback with family and friends, hearts, or a competitive game of cribbage. He also loved attending any event his six grandchildren participated in.
In addition to his wife of 50 years, Mr. Kurtz leaves behind his sons, Earl (E.J.) Kurtz III and his wife, Tina, and Justin Kurtz and his wife, Meredith; his daughter, Renee Kurtz; and his two brothers and sister. He will also be missed by his grandchildren, Earl IV, Laney, Dylan, Julia, Wyatt and Clint.
Funeral services for Mr. Kurtz will be on Monday, April 15, at 10 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Cheshire, 111 Church Drive. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at church. Burial will follow in Cheshire Hillside Cemetery.
Friends may call at The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 South Main Street, on Sunday afternoon, April 14, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Cheshire Community Food Pantry.
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