Austin Blake Kurtz, “Kurtzy”, a beloved member of our family, gained his angel wings on September 5th, 2023, at the age of 29.

Austin was born on May 10th, 1994, in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. Austin grew up in Watertown, Minnesota, among families and many friends, especially enjoying his time on his grandparent’s property. Austin never missed an opportunity to snow mobile on a fresh blanket of snow, cast a line in the lake, test the speedometer on anything motorized with his buddies…. Austin loved to work with his hands. He was the first person to call when his friends needed something fixed. I am sure his dad and I lost more tools than we can count. Austin’s greatest achievement in life was his son, Silas. Silas was his light in life. In the time they spent together, Austin’s complete and utter adoration for Silas radiated the room.

Austin battled addiction for many years. Austin’s repeated recovery efforts were intentional and inspiring. Austin wanted better for himself, his son, and his family members. Addiction may have won this battle, but it will not define him as a person. Austin was an exceptional soul with great love in his heart.

Austin is survived by his son, Silas (Ashley), parents, Tina (Benjamen) and Rodney (Jessie), his paternal grandfather, Ron, maternal grandfather, Terry, bonus grandfather, Ken, siblings Kayla (Kyle), Jeffrey, Claire (Ryan), Madelyn and Addison. Cousins who were more like siblings, Ericka, Zach, Emily, Cody, and Nate. Special Aunts, Heidi (Chad), and Auntie Coe-Nichole (Terry), Uncles, Jason (Dawn and children) and Robby (Kendra and children). Austin was loved and admired by his large extended family. Austin is now in the arms and comforts of his grandmothers, Georgie, Roberta, and Beatie.

Love you bigger than the sky, Bud.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM on September 16, 2023, at St. Mary of Czestochowa Catholic Church in rural Delano, Minnesota. Gathering of family and friends was from 4-8 PM on September 15, 2023, at the Iten Funeral Home in Delano, Minnesota, and from 10-11 AM prior to the Mass on Saturday at the church. Inurnment in the church cemetery.