Karen L. (Davis) Kurtz

Karen L. Kurtz, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away Friday June 9, 2023 surrounded by her family. She was 79. Karen was born the first of 5 children to Willard and Helen (Thornburg) Davis on April 24, 1944 in Ravenna, Ohio. She was a lifelong resident of Rootstown, graduating from Rootstown High School in 1962.  She is survived by the love of her life, husband Gerald (Jerry) Kurtz, who she married on May 15, 1965. They recently celebrated 58 years of marriage. Karen and Jerry raised their family of 3 children at their home in Rootstown, where they have resided for 49 years. Karen spent her working career of 30 years at Kent Roosevelt High school, retiring in 2016. She truly enjoyed her time there as a school secretary in several capacities, making many friends along the way. She loved baking and sewing and used her skills not only for her family, but also in helping the church raise money through various bake sales and provided clothing for their missionary efforts. She continued to do so after retiring. She was a long-time member of the Rootstown United Methodist Church, and continued to worship there until her health no longer allowed it. She loved to watch her kids and grandkids at various sporting events and activities throughout her life. A true believer in our Lord, Karen would not want anyone to mourn her loss, rather rejoice and celebrate in the salvation she now has. Karen is survived by her loving husband Jerry, and children Marianne (David) Glenn, Michael (Sheila) Kurtz and Mark (Kimberly)Kurtz. She was also the proud and loving grandmother to 6 grandchildren: Amber (Brian)Diulus, Ashley Glenn, Jenna Kurtz, Jackson Kurtz, Kaylee Kurtz, and Logan Kurtz. Other family survivors include her Aunt Joan Kyser, and siblings Shirley Gibson, Ken Davis, Kathleen Michl, and Tom Davis. A celebration of life and calling hours are planned from 2pm-4pm, at the Rootstown United Methodist Church, 4065 State Route 44 in Rootstown, Ohio on Sunday June 25, 2023. A service will immediately follow. Please join us to share your stories and remember Karen.