Barbara J. Kurth
Barbara J. Kurth, 83, passed away in Naperville on February 12, 2021, surrounded by family. Born in McLean, IL, to Kyle and Dorene Drinnon, she grew up as an only child on a farm in Minier, IL. Barbara met Frederick Kurth at the church they both attended as teenagers in Minier. After dating throughout their college years at University of Illinois, she and Fred were married and eventually settled in Elmhurst, IL, where they raised their three children. After Fred’s retirement, they moved to Scottsdale, AZ, but later split their time between both Arizona and Illinois to be closer to their children and grandchildren. In 2014 they moved to Monarch Landing Retirement Community in Naperville.
Barbara was known for her strong faith, her love and deep devotion to her family and friends, and her attachment to the many dogs and cats they owned over the years. Her creativity and eye for detail turned any house into a comfortable, warm, and beautifully decorated home. She was a wonderful cook (although she never claimed to enjoy cooking) and an exquisite baker. She loved gardening and seeing all the birds that were attracted to her flower gardens. She enjoyed knitting and was an avid reader and life-long learner. Barbara always made herself available to others and will be remembered for being optimistic, an excellent listener, a wise counselor, and an encourager to those who were experiencing difficulties. She will be greatly missed.
Barbara is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Fred; her children Mark (Shelby Moravec) Kurth, Stephanie (Mark) Rustemeyer, and Eric (Kierith) Kurth; grandchildren Emily (Tyler), Kyle, Daniel, Julia, and John; brother-in-law Walter Kurth; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Services and interment will be private. Contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to:
Caring Network
1200 Roosevelt Rd., Suite 114
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Dear Kurth Family,
It was with great sadness that I learned from my Uncle George of Barbara’s passing. Fred and Barbara visited my mother Dolores when she was a patient at The Springs of Monarch Landing. Praying for your comfort and peace. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Dear Fred and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing. She was a lovely person and I am so fortunate to have known her.
Joan and I always enjoyed the times we got together with you and Barbara, filled lots of laughs.
May you find comfort during this difficult time in knowing that she is now at her eternal resting place with the Lord.
Your friend,
George
Dear Kurth family,
We were so sorry to hear about Barbara’s passing. Sending our sympathy and a wish for peace and love during this difficult time.
With love,
Scott Kruger and Scott Vermillion
Aunt Barbara was a light in our lives. She loved God first, her husband second and her family third. She was radiant. God’s love sparkled through her smiling eyes, her warmth, encouragement and sense of humor. She is more fully alive today and is her truer self now. While we miss her now, we look forward to seeing her again!
I will always remember her and smile when I make my cherry pies…
With love,
Betsy, Mike, Taylor, Sarah, William & Patrick
Dear Fred & Family,
We were saddened to hear of Barbara’s passing. We had such a wonderful time over lunch back in 2019 hearing her recall your trip to Ireland prior we left on our trip. She was such a warm person with a great sense of humor.
May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Nancy & Jerry Evett