Jacqueline Loretta Kurz

Age 89 of Morris, Illinois passed away Friday morning, November 22, 2024, at Advent Health Hinsdale Hospital.

Born on November 7, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Jacqueline was the beloved second child of Elmer Arnold William and Rose (Antonelli) Harder. Raised in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood, Jackie often reminisced about her childhood adventures, from walking to the Lake Michigan shoreline to cool off in the summer heat to the unforgettable air raid drills during World War II, when the city would go dark. She attended Yale Elementary School and graduated from Parker High School.

On July 9, 1955, Jackie married the love of her life, Robert R. Kurz, at Hope Lutheran Church. Their union was blessed with two children, Robert Roy Kurz, Jr., born in 1957, and Cory Ann Kurz, born in 1960.

Jackie’s career reflected her adaptability and dedication. She began as a crossing guard for the Chicago Police Department before working at Chicago Kent Law School for 15 years. Later, she transitioned to a role as office manager for Filler, Weiner, and Zaner Commodities, where her organizational talents shone. After retiring from the hustle of downtown Chicago, Jackie and Bob moved to Morris, Illinois, in the Goose Lake area, embracing a quieter yet active lifestyle.

Even in retirement, Jackie’s love for engaging with others led her to the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau. She found joy leading tours and bus trips, often accompanied by Bob, and sharing her enthusiasm for exploration and connection.

Jackie and Bob shared a remarkable love story, spanning 63 ½ years of marriage until Bob’s passing. Their deep bond was a testament to enduring love and partnership.

Jackie will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her love for storytelling, and her commitment to family and community. Her legacy is one of kindness, strength, and a life lived to the fullest. She leaves behind cherished memories and a reminder to find joy and purpose in every chapter of life.

She is survived by her loving son, Robert and wonderful daughter-in-law, Lori of Homer Glen; three grandchildren: Alexis Kurz (Jason Hoefferle), Amanda Kurz and Robert Kurz; four God-daughters: Margie, Mari, Laura and Darcey and many cousins, as well as friends. In addition, Jackie was blessed with wonderful neighbors.

Jacqueline was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Cory Ann Kurz, husband Robert R. Kurz, Sr., brother, Elmer, Jr. (Donna) Harder, brother-in-law, Thomas Kurz and sister-in-law, Dorothy Flynn.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway (one block north of Illinois Route 113) in Coal City in Wednesday, November 27, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. A procession will then depart the funeral home to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois, where committal services will be held at 1:00 p.m. and Jackie will be laid to rest with her late husband, Bob.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Jacqueline’s memory to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad, P.O. Box 6, Elwood, IL 60421.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, and upload photographs.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Coal City. (815-634-2125)