Kurt Matthew Eshelman

Kurt Matthew Eshelman, 72, of Elgin, IL, checked out of life's grand hotel on July 18, 2024. Born on February 1, 1952, he seized the day for a solid 72 years, leaving behind a trail of laughter and love.

Larkin High School couldn't contain his charisma, nor could the Air Force, though they did try for four glorious years. After serving his country, Kurt dove headfirst into the waters of the Elgin Water Department. He made waves working his way through the department until, as Superintendent, he made his splashy exit into retirement at the spry age of 53.

Kurt was the kind of guy who could find a stock market silver lining on the cloudiest of days, and if walking dogs were an Olympic sport, he'd have taken home the gold. Always ready with a tool belt and a wisecrack, he was the family's go-to fixer-upper and mood-lifter.

The leading man in a lifelong love story, he adored his wife Wendy Lou (Lull) Eshelman, and was the hero dad to Kristina Noel and Matthew JW Eshelman, not to mention grandpa extraordinaire to a fantastic five: Cody Mitchell, Tiffani Amber, Echo Eryn, Sydney Rae, and Isaac Matthew. And let's not forget his scene-stealing role as great-grandpa to Anatolea Contessa and Jackson James.

Preceded in his journey to the great beyond by his parents, John and Mary-Louise, and his brother, Marc, Kurt's leaving a legacy that's no joke, though he'd love for you to laugh remembering him.

In lieu of a burial, cremation will be handled by Fox Valley Cremation Services. So, let's raise a glass, share a laugh, and tip our hats to a man whose zest for life was as infectious as his humor. Kurt, you will be missed, but never forgotten!