Wayne Lee Kurtz

Wayne Lee Kurtz, age 69, of Billings, passed away at his home, Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011. Wayne was born in Miles City, Mont., to Albert and Lillian (Albert) Kurtz on March 3, 1942.

Wayne attended school in Miles City and graduated from Custer County High School in 1960. He served with the National Guard and was a roughneck in the oilfields around Baker, Mont. For many years he played the drums in bands with his best friend Burch Palmer; their band was called 'The Walkers.' Later Wayne had his own band, 'Trips Three.' He was always proud that they played at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas.

Wayne and Kathy owned the Alta Club in Miles City for many years and then he built the Golden West. After moving to Billings in 2001 he worked at the Billings Airport for the TSA.

Wayne loved his three sons and they always looked up to and respected their father. He was so proud of all of their accomplishments. All three young men have gone on to be very successful. He was always at all the boys' sporting events cheering them on and was grinning from ear to ear at their college graduations.

Wayne was always open to conversation with anyone and everyone. Over the years so many people were drawn to his spirit, sense of humor, and kindness. It was easy to call Wayne Kurtz a dear friend.

Wayne and Kathleen Ann Brown were united in marriage Dec. 5, 1976, in Baker, Mont. They were a loving couple since October of 1973 and recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen Ann (Brown) Kurtz; three sons Marc Allen Kurtz of Sioux Falls, S.D., Dr. Michael John Kurtz of Sheridan, Wyo., and Matthew Wayne Kurtz of Billings; a son Paul Kurtz and a daughter Jill Meyer; a sister Eileen Feuerherm of Miles City, Mont.; and a brother Arnold 'Dub' (Lucille) Kurtz of Alexandria, Va.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Donna May Hollowell and Yvonne Kurtz; and a brother Louis Paul Kurtz.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Interment will follow in the family lot of the Custer County Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.