Tom C. Kurtz, age 86, passed away peacefully at home, in the arms of his loving family on Sunday evening, August 21, 2022.

He was born February 24, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, son of the late Sydney Kurtz and Lovyna (Vidalin) Wensing.  Tom grew up in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, forming many life-long friendships and fond memories during his childhood.  Tom served in the United States Army from 1953-1958 and was a proud and honored Korean War veteran.  Most of his adult life was spent in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, with his wife Patricia (Neuser-Falvey) Kurtz, his partner for over 45 years, whom he married on April 23, 1993.  He was employed by Manitowoc Public Utilities, working with the water plant team for over 35 years.  Tom was the definition of selfless and was always willing to help, no matter the circumstance.  He impacted the lives of many, blessing others with his always generous and caring nature.  He was a true hero, not only to his country, but also his family.  Tom was a wildlife enthusiast and appreciated bird watching, feeding his backyard critters, and hunting.  His true passion was fishing, often traveling to distant lakes to catch the next big northern pike.  He enjoyed seasonal camping at Plymouth Rock Campground, which included many laughs around the campfire with family and friends, making stories to fill a lifetime.  Tom also loved traveling, always driving, and never flying, to ensure time was taken to make the most of the country's scenery and every road trip wonder.  He had a fondness for Florida, where he spent time visiting his daughters, having fun on the beach with his grandchildren, and soaking up the sunshine.  In his spare time, Tom often relaxed on the shores of Lake Michigan, watching the Car ferry come in. He loved all dogs and they loved him!  The Green Bay Packers were his team, as could be shown in ninety percent of his wardrobe, the time he spent attending their training camp, and watching their games from his comfy recliner.  He loved a good joke, and his sincere laughter was the best sound in the world.  Tom led a full and wonderful life and will be missed beyond measure.

Tom is survived by his wife: Pat Kurtz; five children: Debra (Simon) Sumerlin, Mitchell (Diane) Kurtz, Glenda (Mike) Sylvia, Cynthia (Lee) Hoeffner, and Wendy (Jorge) Crespo; grandchildren: Wesley Schmidt, Hailey (Justin) Wolf, Tyler (Tia) Hoeffner, Nathan Crespo, Amber Hoeffner (fiance' Christopher), Kristin (Josh) Kramer, Kira (Tyler) Justice, Selena (Chris) Redman, Olivia Sumerlin; great-grandchildren: Ember, Vivien, Analeigh, and Hunter; and great-granddog: Roxy. Other relatives and friends also survive.  He was preceded in death by his grandson: Adam Thario; parents: Sydney Kurtz and Lovyna (Vidalin) Wensing; paternal grandparents: Charles and Mathilda Kurtz; and maternal grandparents: Tom and Cecelia Vidalin.

A private family service has been held in Tom's honor at Holy Cross Cemetery in Two Rivers, followed by a gathering at his favorite restaurant, Port Sandy Bay.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome .

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory of Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Tom's family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Sharon S. Richardson Hospice, Home Instead and personal caregivers, for the care and compassion they have shown to Tom and his family over the past several months.  Our gratitude and appreciation go out to you all.