Phyllis June Kurz's Obituary
Phyllis June Kurz (nee Chase), 99, passed away peacefully at home December 30, 2023, surrounded by her grandchildren. Phyllis grew up on a dairy farm in Ionia County, Michigan. She was Valedictorian of her graduating class. Phyllis worked in a bank until enlisting in the U.S. Navy (WAVES). She served from April 1945 until August 1946. While stationed in Cleveland, OH. Phyllis met her husband of 47 years, U.S. Marine, Leonard R. Kurz. Both had a love for dancing, especially polka. They raised two daughters, Karen and Trudie, both active in 4-H. Phyllis worked for Republic Steel as a graphic artist until her retirement in 1986. Retirement gave Phyllis the opportunity to be an active member at the N. Olmsted Senior Center, Towne Club, and volunteer as a “Red Coat” through Playhouse Square. In 2000, Phyllis moved to Leesburg, Florida where she resided for 22 years, snow birding north every summer. Her social life grew to include jewelry making, twilling, kitchen band, and many more activities. Phyllis was known for her love and collection of dolls. She also collected decorative plates and spoons. Phyllis enjoyed playing piano and organ. She learned to play the banjo and ukulele. Phyllis was an avid card player, teaching all her grandkids. One of her favorite games to play as a family was Rummikub.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard R Kurz, daughters, Karen K. Morgan (Chris) and Trudie L. Taylor, parents Herman and Stella Chase (Arnold), and brother, Robert Chase (Jean). She is survived by her sister, Mary Gatzemeyer (Norman), grandchildren, Lorrie Buchdrucker (Jeff), Rachel Zielinski (Gary), Anne Wickert (Tom), Stephanie Crouch (Brian), Grant Morgan (Terri), and Pamela Johnson (Jason). Phyllis had 12 great grandchildren: Nathan, Joshua, Kennedy, Lillian, Jackson, Taylor, Madison, Lucas, Andrew, Reagan, Penelope, and Oliver. She was an aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Services will be January 8, 2024, at Sunset Memorial Chapel in N. Olmsted, OH. Visitation is 10am-12pm, with funeral service starting at 12 pm. Private interment at Sunset Memorial Park.
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