John Anthony Kurth

John Anthony Kurth, age 63, passed away peacefully and went home to be with the Lord on May 22, 2026.

John was born on January 17, 1963, in Medford, WI, to Jerome and Patricia (Wiarek) Kurth. He graduated from Phillips High School in 1981. Shortly thereafter he went to work on the road finishing concrete in the Milwaukee area for Zignegos. He still visited home often, and that’s when he met the love of his life, Michelle (Smugala), in 1984, at a hunter’s dance in Ogema. They said I do on March 11, 1989. In 1991 they welcome home their son, followed by their daughter two years later. The children brought John home from working on the road and that is when he began logging. During his career, he had also worked at different welding and manufacturing jobs in the area.

When you saw John, undoubtedly he would have a smile on his face. As some would call it, he was happy-go-lucky. A joy to be around, full of good stories that would make you laugh, and someone you could count on. He was always up for an adventure and happy to lend a hand. It’s no surprise that on his final day on earth, he was helping some friends pour concrete. His work ethic was unmatched. He was always 30 minutes early for work, and he would stop before his shift and enjoy an ice cream sandwich. He love to fish, dance, and enjoy a cold one, but most of all he loved his family. He always let them know how much he loved them and how proud he was of them. John loved the Lord and knowing where he is now, gives his family peace.

Waiting for John at the gates of heaven are his parents; Jerome and Patricia, step-mother Charlaine Kurth, his sister, Carol; and brother, Bob.

John is survived by his wife Michelle, of 37 years; his son, Alex (Megan) Kurth; his daughter, Nicole (Tyler) Johnson; siblings Brenda (Jeffrey) Lingford; Jody (Loren) Wanish; Tami (Todd) Edinger, Mary (Pete) Makovsky; Randy (Ginny) Kurth; Andrew Kurth; and 6 beloved grandchildren.

A funeral mass and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church, W9485 US Highway 8, Catawba, WI 54515. Visitation will begin at 9:30-11:00 and will continue until the time of the Mass at 11:00. There will be lunch to follow.