LeRoy D. Kurtyka

LeRoy Kurtyka was a man who loved big—his love was all encompassing, inclusive and genuine.   He made room in his world and his heart for everybody he met.  His smile and his laugh were infectious.

From the day he was born on September 7, 1957, he brought love to the world and his parents, MaryLou (Weir) and the late LeRoy G. Kurtyka. The oldest child, he had 2 sisters, Karla (Mike) Bruce of Grand Forks and Pat (David) Ruddy of Robbinsdale, MN.

LeRoy lived in Grand Forks his entire life, graduating from Central High School in 1975.  He met his soulmate, Jan (Middleton), daughter of Jean and the late Don Middleton, in 1976, and they were married at Calvary Lutheran Church in September of 1978.  Together they began 40 years of cultivating wonderful friendships.  Chad was their firstborn, in May 1979 with Lindsey completing the family in 1981.  As they grew they learned love, loyalty and the importance of family.

Northern Plumbing was like a family to LeRoy, too.  He spent 42 years holding multiple positions throughout the company.  As stated by the company, “LeRoy embodied the highest ideals of kindness, friendship, humility and kept us laughing everyday.”  He was a proud member of the Forx Home Builders Association and served in various leadership capacities.  He was also able to serve on the North Dakota Builders Association.  His friendship circle literally expanded into the hundreds, and he remembered each and every one of them.

Calvary Lutheran was blessed by his leadership and care for others.  He was a founding member of Men on a Mission, thoroughly enjoyed attending the men’s retreat, and served on the church council.

LeRoy began one of his favorite roles in life with the birth of his first grandchild, Eli (12), born to Chad and Jeni of Grand Forks.  They are also the parents of Pippi (6), and Luna (4).  Lindsey and Andy Marshall of West Hartford, Connecticut added to his joy with the birth of Warren (4) and Harper (16 months).

Even after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in June of 2017, he continued to live with his glass half full personality.  He spent his final 18 months loving big and charming even the most stoic doctors and nurses.  On Monday, December 17, 2018,  the world became a little less fun.  His family and friends will continue his legacy of love!

Memorial Services will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 21, 2018 in Calvary Lutheran Church, 1405 S. 9th St., Grand Forks.  

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service on Thursday, December 20, 2018 also in Calvary Lutheran Church.