Kurt Darwin Bartell

Kurt Darwin Bartell, age 61, of Duluth passed away at Essentia St. Mary’s Medical Center on November 22, 2025. He was born in Duluth on May 12, 1964 to parents Maurice and Gloria (Johnson) Bartell. Kurt loved the Twin Ports and was proud to be a lifelong Duluthian.

Kurt built his career in real estate by doing what came naturally – connecting with people. His unmatched humor, remarkable memory, and enthusiastic spirit made him unforgettable to everyone he met.

As a tennis coach at Marshall School and Duluth East, he dedicated countless hours to mentoring young athletes. His genuine desire to guide and uplift made him a beloved figure both on and off the courts. His proudest accomplishment was coaching this son, Max. As a single dad, he raised Max with a big heart, steady encouragement, and the kind of life lessons that could only come from someone who lived fully and loudly.

Kurt is preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Natalie.

He is survived by his son, Max, who was his whole world; wife, Rachel; siblings, Danielle (Gordon) Johnston, Dayton (Machelle), Tierney (Michael Booth), and Chelsea; in-laws, Milt and Marilyn Hagen; his nieces and nephews, of whom he was so proud; his tennis family; many extended family members, and countless friends – all of whom he loved dearly.

A visitation will be held at St. Matthews Lutheran Church, 4 Elizabeth Ave, Esko, MN on Friday, December 5th from 5-7 p.m. and continues Saturday, December 6th from 10 until the Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. Please join the family for a reception immedatley following at Clyde Ironworks. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Duluth Friends of Tennis (Longview Tennis Club).