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Ronald KURTZ Obituary
KURTZ, Ronald J.
Passed away at the age of 87 on April 21, 2014, in Sacramento, California. He was born on November 5, 1926, in Holly, Michigan and was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Mildred Kurtz, and four brothers, David, Stanley, Roger and Gordon Kurtz. He leaves his beloved wife, Marilyn; three stepdaughters, Lori Spiekerman, Terry Lucas and Kelly Schupp; six grandchildren and one great-grandson. He also leaves behind two sons. Ron was a Professor of Anthropology at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa for 31 years. He was a cultural anthropologist, an ethnographer and a linguist. He lived and did research in Africa, London, Switzerland and China. He wrote and published extensively in his field. Ron was an inveterate reader, a world traveller and always had an inquiring mind. He was devoted to a healthy environment and organizations that promoted equality and justice for all. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to The Nature Conservancy or the Sierra Club.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ronald KURTZ
3 Entries
Susie Morris
July 18, 2014
Mr. Kurtz was my favorite teacher at Grinnell College because of his unusually honest rapport with his students. I have often thought of him, over the years, and will always appreciate the insights he gave us so generously.
Kim Thomas
July 16, 2014
Ron Kurtz was my professor at Grinnell College. I will always remember him for his warmth and support and for the wonderful conversations we had about anthropology, the nature of human beings and life in general. I have thought of him often over the years and am saddened that he has passed from this earth. Having just lost my own mother I can understand your loss and send my condolences to his family.
Margarita Casas
April 27, 2014
Thank you for your kindness. You will be missed!
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