Jill T. Kurtz

Jill Tarczy Kurtz, age 70, longtime resident of Northville, passed away June 17, 2023.  She was born on July 29, 1952 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of Stephen and Bettie (Ricketts) Tarczy.  Jill was united in marriage to David W. Kurtz on August 13, 1977; they spent 45 years lovingly devoted to one another.

Jill graduated from Henry Ford High School; class of 1970.  She completed her undergraduate studies in education at Western Michigan University where she was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority.  Jill continued her education at Eastern Michigan University earning a master’s degree in education.  Jill taught second and third grades at Orchard Hills Elementary in Novi for 10 years.  She stopped teaching when her second child was born so she could focus solely on her family.

Jill’s true calling in life was to be a mom.  She was entirely devoted to caring for her  family.  The home was her domain and no one was allowed to cross her when it came to furnishing and decorating.  The family dinner was sacrosanct and on the table at 6:30 sharp.  If you were not home you could expect a call by 6:32.  She was incredibly supportive of her children, especially at school where she was a member of the PTA.  Jill made sure her kids got to their practices and extracurricular activities; never missing a single event. Jill developed a real flair for design that is reflected in her beautiful home.  That talent spilled over outdoors into the beautiful gardens and flower beds surrounding her home.  She was always an active person, whether running 5K races, working out in the gym, or practicing yoga for many years.  Jill enjoyed travelling and loved seeing new places, but she resisted going anywhere she had previously visited.  “Been there, done that” was her mantra.  Her greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.  Jill and three of her closest college friends got together monthly for dinner and in over 40 years it was a very rare month that would be skipped.  College football became a passion for Jill, who was a huge Michigan fan and attended nearly all the home games for 45 years.  Tailgating was her specialty, growing over the years into a rather massive football Saturday event that required a couple of days preparation.  Most importantly, Jill was “Nana” to her grandsons, whom she adored and cherished during the times they were together.

Jill was a force.  She will be forever missed in innumerable ways.  Her charisma, thoughtfulness, love for her family and friends, and a true zest for life made her special to those who knew her.  Jill is survived by her husband, David W. Kurtz; her children, Rebecca Kurtz (Ronald III) Bonatz and Michael (Megan Smith) Kurtz; her grandsons, Ronald IV and Brooks; and her siblings, Stephen (Toni) Tarczy and Leigh (Steven) Guzowski.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

The visitation will be held Thursday, June 22 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held Friday, June 23, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the Vasculitis Foundation , PO Box 28660, Kansas, MO 64188.