Obituary: Earl J. Kurtz Jr., 81, Of Cheshire

CHESHIRE, CT — (From Alderson-Ford Funeral Home): 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.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, in his name, may be made to the Cheshire Community Food Pantry.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Alderson-Ford Funeral Home here.