Robert Kurz, 85, passed away on June 22, 2020, in his home in Hixson, Tennessee.
Bob was born in Hackensack, NJ and graduated from Lodi High School in Lodi, NJ. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1952. After enlisting, he attended recruit training at RTC Bainbridge, Md., and then on to Memphis where he attended “A” school. Commander Kurz served as an aviation electronics technician with patrol wing in Squadron VP-42. He was then transferred to Miramar as a weapon’s system instructor. Cdr. Kurz was commissioned in 1961. After attending OCS, he had sea duty with the U.S.S. Bausell (DD-845); served as executive officer aboard the U.S.S. Richard L. Page (DEG-5); and served as commanding officer aboard the U.S.S. Shrike (MSC-201). Ashore, he served with COMCRUDESLANT staff; the Bureau of Navy Personnel; Chief of Naval Material, and Recruit Training Command, Orlando. Cdr. Kurz was also a graduate of the Armed Forces Staff College. During his military career, he was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation, the China Service Medal, the National Defense Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He retired from the military as an Executive Officer, Service School Command, in Orlando, Fl., in 1978. After retiring from the military, he attended and graduated from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Fl.
Bob and Chris spent many years cruising the Intracoastal Waterway before finally settling in Hixon, where they were active members of Trinity Lutheran Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Chris Carden Kurz, his daughter-in-law, Lisa Kurz Klinefelter, granddaughter, Emily Kurz, and sister, Joan Morris. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Julia Kurz, of Little Ferry, NJ; his brothers, Joseph and Kenneth Kurz, and his sons, Steven and Jeffrey Kurz.
A private graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. His family wishes to thank the staff members of Hospice of Chattanooga for the care and concern provided to him.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, 423 531-3975.