W Kenneth Kurtz

W. Kenneth Kurtz, 92, of New Paris, died early Saturday morning, December 20, 2008, at the home of his daughter.  He had been ill the past three months. He was born in Nappanee on April 24, 1916 to Frederick and Alpha (Evans) Kurtz.  He married Eilein Leatherman in Milford on July 23, 1939.  She survives. A graduate of New Paris High School, Mr. Kurtz worked as a carpenter for Brown & Brown Construction in Wakarusa until his retirement in 1983.  He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church and attended Maple Grove Church of the Brethren.  He was a member of the Carpenters’ Union, Local 413.  He was an avid woodworker and enjoyed his family. He is survived by his wife; a daughter, Kathy Baker of New Paris; three grandchildren, Dawn (Terry) Chanley of Nappanee, Kristi (Steve) Baker-Ott of Wakarusa, and Brad Baker of New Paris; five great-grandchildren; and a brother, K.W. (Phyllis) Kurtz of Millersburg. He was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Kurtz; a sister, Pauline Overlease; and a son-in-law, Phil Baker. Friends may call 3 to 7 p.m., Monday, December 22, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. A 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 23, 2008, funeral service will be held at Maple Grove Church of the Brethren.  Pastor Dwayne Runkle will officiate. Burial will be in New Paris Cemetery, New Paris. Memorial contributions may be made to the Maple Grove Church of the Brethren or Grace United Methodist Church.