Under a beautiful harvest moon, Gene Kurtz, 78, of Forsyth, Montana, peacefully passed away on September 28th, 2023 at Rosebud County Nursing Home.
He was born on January 5th, 1945 in Tacoma, Washington, to Glen and Rita Kurtz. Gene grew up in Hardin, Montana, with his two brother’s Charles (Red) Kurtz and Cecil Ward. Growing up in Hardin, Gene and his brother’s farmed with their dad on leased land near Wyola. He attended Hardin High School where he played football, swam, and sang in the high school choir. After high school, he continued his education at Eastern Montana College and received his Master’s in Education from the University of Montana.
In 1968, Gene came to Forsyth as a student teacher in the high school, where he met his wife and soulmate Anita, a second-grade teacher. He taught 5th and 6th grade for two years in Forsyth before becoming the Grade School Principal. He was also a coach for high school track and cross country and junior high football, basketball and track. In coaching, he was instrumental in starting Forsyth High School’s first men’s and women’s cross country program. His heroes were the athletes he coached, the students he taught and his fellow teachers and coaches. He cherished his memories of winning state high school titles in women’s cross country in 1977 and men’s track in 1976.
In 1980, Gene joined New York Life Insurance Company as an agent in Forsyth, where he worked until his retirement. During his career, he was highly respected by his colleagues and clients for his dedication and professionalism. For years, he started his day at coffee with local business professionals. These gentlemen were close to his heart and gave him great memories. Most days over coffee they argued, they laughed, and they cried about current events.
Gene once said “the only way to effect change is to get involved”. He was a dedicated community leader and served in city leadership and on several boards and committees. He served as Mayor of Forsyth for five years beginning in 1977. He was Vice Chairman of the Montana Coal Board for 25 years and received a Governor’s Citation Award from Governor Stan Stephens in 1991 in recognition of his service. Gene was also involved in the Lions Club, Rosebud Literacy Council, Forsyth Dogie Athletic Booster Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Board of Directors of the Forsyth Developmental Foundation where he served for 25 years. He played a significant role in the development of the River View Villa, a senior living facility in Forsyth. He also organized the Mayor’s Cup Run, an annual 5K and 10K road race he directed for over 20 years. At the height of his running, he often logged 20-25 miles per week. He ran in many annual road races and encouraged everyone to get out and run. His last race was in 2015, the Heart and Sole road race where he walked the 2 mile race with his wife, Anita.
He made many great memories, traveling, exploring, running road races, water and snow skiing and dancing with Anita, family and friends. He was the life of the party and his motto was “we have to do it while we can.”
He was known for his charm, kind heart and positive attitude, his dedication to his family and community, and his love for running, golfing, attending sporting events, and boating on Bighorn Lake at Yellowtail Dam.
Gene was blessed by his family and is survived by his wife Anita, his children Katie and Chester Kurtz, his daughter-in-law Katie, his grandchildren Sophie and Colby, his brother and sister-in-law’s, Judie and Perry Hanson, Mary Squires, Steve, Art and Karie Wiltgen and many family members, including his Forsyth family, friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his brother’s Charles Kurtz and Cecil Ward, his Parents, nephew Clay Van Artsdalen, niece’s, Vicki Bjorem and Kayla Squires, brother-in-laws, Bob Moseman and David Squires and sisters-in-law’s, Pauline Ward and Rhonda Wiltgen.
A celebration of Gene’s life will be held on a future date (to be decided) at Forsyth Country Club. The family would like to thank Rosebud Nursing Home’s loving staff for their amazing care and love for Gene. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gene’s memory to The Rosebud Foundation (designated to the nursing home) or the Forsyth Dogie Athletic Booster Club.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m. to Forsyth Country Club
Saturday January 6, 2024
47 Smith Creek RD
Forsyth, MT
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
1:00 p.m. to Forsyth Country Club
Saturday January 6, 2024
47 Smith Creek RD
Forsyth, MT
Share
Dwayne Albertson says
Anita, Katie and Chester:
My thoughts are with you. Gene contributed so very much to our community. He will be missed.
Jim and Lavina Hall says
Sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He is in our prayers
Connie Brown says
Anita, Katie and Chester,
Sorry to hear of your families loss of Gene with his passing. He was a great contributor for the city of Forsyth and Rosebud County. Hold tight to your memories. My prayers are with your family!
Peggy and Earl says
Dear Anita, Katie, Chester, and Family,
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in the passing of your beloved, Husband, Father, and Grandfather. Gene was a pillar of the entire Forsyth community. His giving heart had a very positive effect on many facets of this community, and for that we are grateful. We are praying that you will find hope in God’s promises. May you be comforted in knowing that many caring hearts are holding you close during this difficult time.
Courtney Holmquist says
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family. Gene was such an amazing man.
Tight hugs to you.
Mike & Lynn Blakesley says
Gene was a great guy, a good friend and a true Forsyth booster. He was one of my favorite teachers in high school and I always knew I could trust in him when he went into the insurance business. Cherish those memories and know that you all will be in our prayers.
Heather Johnstone says
Gene was a track and field coaching legend and we were so blessed to have him supporting our teams years after he retired from coaching. What an impact he made. My thoughts are with his family.
Randy Durr says
Coach Kurtz was the one who taught me at a very young age how to compete, work hard, and be a winner. I will be forever in his debt, and would not be the educator. I am today without his influence. Rest in peace coach. You were one of a kind.
Maretta & Tim says
sending our prayers & love
Sharon Wetsch says
Anita, Katie and Chester..
We were so sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He will always be remembered for his huge heart and wonderful smile. He always supported everything Dogies and Forsyth.. our community will sure miss him. He was a super person. Hold those memories close. Our deepest condolences. Hugs…
Sharon Wetsch says
We were so sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He will always be remembered for his huge heart and wonderful smile. He always supported everything Dogies and Forsyth.. our community will sure miss him. He was a super person. Hold those memories close. Our deepest condolences. Hugs…
Laurie Lelm says
Anita and family I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you.
Nan Quinlan says
Anita
Larry and I send our condolences.
Ron and Ginny Hathaway says
So sorry for your loss. We were glad to be associated with Gene in the same insurance company. Rest in Peace my friend
Garnet Essex says
Anita, Katie, Chester and family,
I am so sorry. I remember all the fun times we had together from golfing, dinners, trips. My memory goes right to Terry taking Gene in his wheelchair down the escalator. This was at a football game in Dallas, Tx. Anita and I made sure we left by the elevator. Gene had the best personality and only spoke positive of everybody. Terry and I truly loved Gene and love Anita.
Butch & Caprice says
Anita, Katie and Chester: sad to here of Gene, You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Janice watson says
So sad to hear of Genes passing. Prayers are with you
Bradi Jones says
Chester and Family,
So very sorry to hear of your loss of your Dad, husband, grandfather Gene. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Bradi Lloyd
Toynette Rolston says
Anita, Katie and Chester
When we talked in July, Gene’s health was not good and you were spending many hours a week enjoying him and taking care of him. May the trips, the memories of good times and your long life together be a comfort in this very, very hard time. You told me Gene’s philosophy was to live life to fullest and enjoy the ride. You did this well. Take care.
Joan Leinwand says
Sending my condolences.
Kacey Morgan says
I always remember him being such a supporter during the track season. So much commitment to his family and our community.
My family sends our love as you grieve.
Paul Wilson says
Gene was such a genuinely good and kind man. I still remember all of his lessons teaching me how to perfect my hook shot. He was such a strong supporter of everything on the Forsyth community. My prayers are with everyone who is dealing with losing him. Rest in peace, Gene.
Kay and Rocky Berdahl says
Anita, Katie, Chester and family,
Sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He touched many lives and will be remembered by all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Joby Parker says
Anita, Chester, Katie, and family,
My heart is breaking for all of you with Gene’s passing.
He was such a great principal, coach , business man and member of our community. He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed.
God’s blessings to all of you. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers always.
Rest in peace from pain and suffering dear Gene. You are now in the arms of our Saviour.
Bill and Joby
Robyn Willett says
Anita, Katie, Chester and family I am so very sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He was an amazing, kind, and gentle soul. He was such a positive person and bright light in this world! Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lynnette Watson says
Anita Chester and katie.sorry to hear about gene.i going to miss his smile .he was was the best ill never forget him.my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.
Dinny Bennett says
Anita, I am saddened to hear of Gene’s passing. As you and your family know, he was an amazing man and because of this will never be forgotten. Sending prayers and God Bless.
Sandra Tibbs says
I am so humbled to be an honorary member of Hardin class 1963 . To be able to call Gene and Anita my friends is a true blessing. I’m sure Ron Zimmer was at the pearly gates to greet Gene as he was presented with his silver wings. The stories that they shared and the love of friendships will forever be etched in history. To Anita and family prayers always. Thinking of you. Remember the good times. Love you
Clarisse Roos says
Anita and family,
I am so sorry to hear this news. Gene was so involved in the Forsyth community for so many years and we all benefited from his service. I will forever think of his kind smile in the halls of the elementary school when he was our Principal. Know that he will remain in the fond memories of many. Thinking of you.
Luchelle Livermont says
So sorry to I hear this, thoughts and prayers for Anita and family. We really enjoyed the house while we were there.
Mark Walton says
Gene hired me in 1973 and became an immediate mentor. His encouragement and guidance was very instrumental in my own educational career. He always demonstrated the best way of treating kids, fellow teachers and the public. A true star, out shining us all. Our deepest sympathies to his entire family.
Jennifer Ferguson Johnson says
So sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joe & Carolyn Wilson says
Gene will be remembered for a lot of traits he shared with others. When he was in a community discussion, he was able to offer suggestions that led to the resolution of the issue at hand. He was a positive influence in Forsyth’s history, offering his knowledge generously to all the organizations in which he was involved. It was tragic that Parkinson’s robbed us of years of his knowledge and wit. We will always keep the good memories of Gene close to our hearts. We’re sending our love to Anita, Katie, and Chester and his family. May you have peace.
Rusty Ruthie says
Wonderful smile Wonderful helping man. Thank you Mr. KURTZ
Gayle and Milt Sausedo says
Anita, Chester and family and Katie, We are so saddened to hear of Gene;s passing. He was so big hearted and friendly that his passing leaves a big loss to our whole community. I have a fun story to share. When we first moved to Forsyth our cousin’s daughter came home from school and told her Mom, Guess what! Our principal is Hoss Cartwright” When I saw Gene I understood her mistake as he did resemble Hoss only better looking. I never think of one without thinking of the other to this day. Our condolences to all of you. RIP Gene.
Butch and Charlys Schulenberg says
Rest in Peace Gene , knowing that Your dedication to serve Your Community will not soon be forgotten. Hugs and Prayers to Your Wife and Family 🙏
Ira Gresens says
He was one of the good guys.
Connie Boone says
Anita,
You and your family have my prayers at this time of your
loss. May God grant you peace.
Sincerely,
Connie Boone
Dolly Morrison says
Anita and family, Genes life was certainly a life well lived. he was such a great asset to the community of Forsyth. And it was such a privilege to know and love the both of you. Fun times playing pinochle with the Bateys and Coates or just gathering for drinks at the golf course. You are all in my prayers at this sad time. Love to you, Dolly Morrison
David and Donna Lloyd says
We were sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. He and I taught together in the old grade school building and were good friends. He and Anita spent time playing cards and games with us often in those days. Had fun.
Our condolences to the family.
Kolleen Forsyth says
My sympathies, Anita & family. Gene was such a likable man. Even in our few years of living in Forsyth, he was such a positive influence! That influence will continue. Wishing you comfort at this difficult time.
Kolleen Forsyth
Forsyth Elem School 1982-1987
Joan E Burt says
I am a Montana New York Life agent and I never knew Gene but his life story touches my heart. At the age of retirement myself, I am faced with many choices how to live the rest of my own years. We should all be as lucky as Gene to know the positive influences one can make in our short time here. May he continue to inspire others as he has now inspired me.
May all of his family and friends find comfort in the fond memories of Gene.
Dee Batey says
Anita & Family, Sorry to hear about Gene’s passing. I have many fond memories of Gene at the Forsyth Country Club. Rest in Peace my friend.
Cindy Lebie says
Anita and family I am so sorry for your loss. Gene was a great guy..
Gil and Dynella says
Anita and family: Thoughts for your comfort and peace for Gene.
John Williams says
Anita and family. Sorry to hear of Gene’s passing. Great man and caring individual. True Dogie
Duane and Kelly Cole says
We have so many wonderful memories of Gene.
He was truly a blessing to all who were fortunate to have known him. He will be missed and always remembered.
Love and prayers to the family.
Doug & Cherie Heser says
Anita and Family,
Gene was so loved by so many. I will never forget how he loved to sing along to the old songs like “Red Wing” at the Nursing Home. You all are in our prayers.
Doug & Cherie
Jerome Rusdal says
I remember doing those Mayors Cup races and getting a blue ribbon from Gene, a Pabst Blue Ribbon!!
Melody Allies says
Anita and Chester and Katie
Im so sorry for your loss and I’m going to miss saying hi and talking to Gene and he was a really nice man and he was a really good hard working and he was a good coach and I’m sending hugs and prayers to you and your family. Rip Gene
Carolyn Hays says
I’ve been gone from Forsyth for quite a time but my kids were in school when Gene was teaching and also principal there. He was great at the job and Forsyth has lost a good member of the community. Remember him well and keep his principals alive. My sympathy to the family and prayers for your peace.
Carolyn (Johnson) Hays