In Memoriam: Esther M. Kurtz ’69

Esther (Anderson) Kurtz ‘69 died Aug. 28, 2021, at age 74. Raised in Grants Pass, she attended Pacific University, where she met her husband, Dale Kurtz ’68, and earned a degree in elementary education. She taught at Perrydale Elementary, in Days Creek and Tiller elementary schools, and in a private kindergarten in Riddle until becoming the kindergarten teacher in Riddle. Kurtz was adored by students, parents, and grandparents, and she readily returned the love and appreciation. She brought her teaching skills to raising her kids, as well.

Kurtz was preceded in death by her parents, Andy and Mary Anderson; stepfather Chuck Beckham; and brother Sandy Anderson. She is survived by her husband, Dale Kurtz ’68; daughter Samantha; sons Mike (and Carolyn), Damon (and Glenda) and Jarel (and Heather); brother Chuck (and Mary) Anderson; sister Mary Kay (and Charlie) Beckham; stepsisters Evie, Laurie and Sadie; and three grandchildren.