Cort Jacob Kuehm

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Cort Jacob Kuehm on March 12, 2025.
Born on August 28, 1940, in Paterson, New Jersey, Cort was raised on his family's farm in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, where he developed the strong work ethic and values that would guide him throughout his life. He was the son of Paul George Kuehm and Clara (Wachter) Kuehm. As a student at Wayne High School, he distinguished himself as an all-star basketball athlete, showcasing the dedication and teamwork that would become hallmarks of his character.
Cort completed his undergraduate degree in geography and history at Valparaiso University in 1962 and later earned his master's degree in special education.
A veteran of the Vietnam War, Cort served as an active member of the US Air Force from 1963 to 1967, where he achieved the rank of Captain and worked as an air traffic controller, weapons controller, and flight navigator. He then worked in the National Guard from 1967 to 1969 as a communications officer.
It was during his military service in Goose Bay, Labrador in 1963 that Cort met Marigordon Starratt. They were married on August 7, 1965, in Amherst, Nova Scotia, beginning a partnership filled with adventure, dedication, and four beloved children. Following their wedding, the couple moved to Sacramento, California, where Cort was stationed for 4 years before returning to New Jersey in 1969.
In New Jersey, Cort joined the staff at High Point Regional High School where he worked as a special education teacher, a guidance counsellor, and a basketball coach. In 1979, he took a position as Principal of the Sussex Middle School, where he worked until 1990. After his time as principal, he returned to his passion of working with children with special needs, becoming the Director of Special Education until his retirement in 1998.
In retirement, Cort enjoyed living in Naples, Florida and later in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He spent summers with his family at their cottage at Amherst Shore, Nova Scotia, creating lasting memories with those he loved most.
Throughout his life, Cort enjoyed sports, reading the news, mowing the lawn, beer, lobster, and above all, his family. He was an avid sports fan, passionately following the Yankees, Giants, Knicks, and later, the Hornets. He also had a remarkable green thumb and loved taking care of his plants – a talent that, to everyone's chagrin, none of his children inherited. He was an incredible father who devoted himself to raising his family and served as the rock upon which they all depended. His wonderful loving nature, good heart, and quick wit brought joy to all who knew him.
Cort is survived by his children Kenneth Paul Kuehm (wife Sarah), Karenne Ray Kuehm, Kyle Starratt Kuehm (wife Karen), and Kathrin Lee (Kuehm) Kush (husband Doug); his grandchildren Oliver, Grant, Alexander; and step-grandchildren Christopher, Nicholas, Francis, and Kayla.
A memorial service to celebrate Cort's life will be held at a future date, with details to be announced. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in honoring his memory.