Calvin "C.C." Coolidge Kurtz

Calvin ( C.C) Coolidge Kurtz, 99-year-old husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great great-grandfather, and minister, known as “Preacher Kurtz," went to be with his beloved wife, son, family and many friends in heaven on February 1, 2025.

He was born in Akron, Ohio in 1925 and grew up in Hartville. C.C. met the love of his life at Bethany Biblical Seminary in Chicago, Illinois in 1944. CC and Lois moved from Spartanburg, South Carolina to Greene County in 1960 with their four children to serve the Evergreen, Shiloh and Mountain Grove Churches of the Brethren.

C.C. was preceded in death by his parents: Ervin Jacob and Ellen Young Kurtz, siblings; Bertha (Lester), Florence (Albert), Mary (Alden), Lillian, Martha (Cassel), Lottie (Osber), Henry, Willis (Hazel), wife and best friend; Lois, for 77 years and son, C.C. Jr. He is survived by his Daughters; Louise (Steve- deceased), Donna (W.H.) and Athena (Reese), Daughter in law; Janis, Grandchildren; Joshua (Maggie), Tamara (David), Jenifer (Gabe), Carol (Jay), Bill (Amy), Deedra (Keith) and Damien (Laura), Great grandchildren; Jake (Kelly), Camden, Keira, Emma (David), Kalani, Emma, Sophia, Kingston, Will, and Kalaya, Great-great grandchildren; John, Mateo, Seth, Abigail and many nieces and nephews.

He believed strongly that one should be a lifelong learner. He attended Bethany Biblical Seminary, Manchester College, Wofford College, Radford College, Virginia Polytechnical Institution, Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Bridgewater College and the University of Virginia. He taught himself to use a computer at age 68. Words were of great interest to him. He continued throughout his life to study the Bible and research new findings. Many of the poems he wrote were inspired by his daily scripture readings.

C.C. was licensed to the ministry at his church at the very early age of thirteen. He served as an ordained minister starting at age nineteen. To provide for his family he also worked many jobs; painter, math teacher, restaurant owner, cookware salesman, termite exterminator, investigator for Health Dept., Southern States employee, satellite sales/ installation and a rural mail carrier.

He was a person with unique ideas and projects, willing to learn new things and follow new pursuits. As he would say, he also dabbled in farming: ponies and horses, cows, pigs, chickens, sheep, rabbits, a monkey, peacocks, chinchillas, dogs, and cats. He loved to watch his quail hatch from eggs.

Preacher Kurtz was known for his humor, outspoken manner, intelligence, generosity, and public speaking ability. He could project his voice to be heard at the back of the church without shouting. His congregation appreciated his succinct sermons on the Kings James Version of the Bible. He officiated many weddings and funerals over the years and regretfully had to stop at age 98 due to his mobility and stamina.

C.C. became a Mason of the St. John’s Lodge #333 AFM in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He earned a 32nd degree. He was a cherished member of the Fraternal Order of Odd Fellows holding the position of International Chaplain, Grand Master, Grand Patriarch, and Commander of the Department Council of Virginia. He was awarded the Decoration of Chivalry, and the Meritorious Service Jewel for his dedication and service to the Order.

He served as the moderator for Madison and Pine Ridge Churches of the Brethren. He also served his community serving on the Board of Supervisors in Greene County and was a charter member of Dyke Volunteer Fire Company.

In retirement C.C. enjoyed spending time on his computer learning new facts, researching topics of interest, writing and sharing his findings with others. He and Lois enjoyed traveling and their many adventures with camping friends. They actively participated in church, community and altruistic activities for many organizations, giving of their time and talents. You always saw them together visiting the sick, making apple butter, or any activity they were invited to attend.

A Celebration of Life for C.C. and Lois is planned for Sunday, March 9th at 2:00 at the Evergreen Church of the Brethren, 645 Evergreen Church Road, Stanardsville, VA 22973. Pastor Johnny Hawkins assisted by Pastor Brian Robinson will officiate. Fellowship and a meal will follow the service at the Dyke Fire House.

The family honored their parents with a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local church. C.C.’s family have been so appreciative of the visits, cards and prayers while he was living alone for the past three years. C.C. touched many lives and will be missed.