Donald “Don” William Kurtz was born in Oakland, California to Eva Medirist Glendenning and Frank Peter Kurtz. He graduated from Monrovia-Arcadia-Duarte High School in 1947. His education was interrupted by his service for two years in the United States Armed forces during the Korean War where he served as a Corporal. After leaving the Army, he worked in Alaska for two years, saving his money, to continue his education. He attended Pasadena City College and L.A. State College where he earned a BA in Special Education and later obtained his Master’s.
Don met his wife, Carol, in 1954 and they later married on his birthday in 1956. They had three children and raised their family in Yorba Linda, California. When their children were grown Don chose to retire from teaching early and moved to Big Bear Lake, California, where they owned and operated Timber Haven Lodge. After fourteen years Don and Carol decided to retire to Sandy, Oregon to be closer to their oldest daughter Chris, where they enjoyed traveling, square dancing and grew to be more active in their faith and became very committed Christians attending Good Shepherd Community Church in Boring. In Don's last years he was very passionate in his faith and love for Jesus. His favorite catch phrases were, “It’s just Jesus” and “It’s all about Jesus”.
Don and Carol had a very full and rewarding life together, married 64 years. He was a wonderful, loving and devoted father, family man who loved to hug.
Don died very peacefully and comfortably, surrounded by his children, wife and grandchildren. He is survived by his widow, Carol, his three children, Eric, Chris and Lisa; six grandchildren; and fourteen great grandchildren. As his family we take great pleasure and peace in knowing that our father is now in the arms of Jesus and we will see him again one day.