Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties

William Frank Kurta

VENTURA, Calif. — William Frank Kurta, 73, of Ventura, passed away at home on March 16, 2016, surrounded by loved ones after a long eight-year battle with cancer.

Bill was born April 3, 1942, to parents Frank William Kurta and Alice Rowe Kurta. After his wonderful birthmother’s passing in 1944, he was raised by his father and loving stepmother, Josephine Kurta.

Growing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Bill loved the outdoors and hunting. He exceled in basketball, baseball, football and track. For 10 years he proudly served in the U.S. Navy. Upon leaving the Navy, Bill was honored to serve the people of Oxnard as a deputy sheriff, then worked as a private investigator, until he became too sick to work.

Bill is survived by his wife, Esther; his daughter, Rachel; stepsons, Elliott and Daniel; his granddaughter, Abigail; sister, Valerie; and brothers, David (Erica) and Frank (Kim); and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A celebration of Bill’s life will take place at Ted Mayr Funeral Home on Friday, April 8, 2016, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or Wounded Warrior Project in his memory and honor.