Obituaries

Obituary for Joel Kenneth Kurtz (1937–2024)

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joel Kenneth Kurtz, age 87, of Los Angeles, California.  Joel passed peacefully, on November 9th, 2024. Joel’s devoted wife, Eileen was by his side, after a lifetime marked by love, laughter, and kindness. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and mentor, Joel leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humor, and generosity.

Joel was born in Bronx, New York, on January 2, 1937, and grew up with a strong sense of family and community. He attended Columbus High School and went on to the University of Alabama, where he became a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. It was during a summer at Rockaway Beach that Joel met the love of his life, Eileen. The couple married in 1959, just two weeks after Joel’s graduation from New York University, where he earned his degree in business. The early years of their marriage were filled with adventure, including a honeymoon in Puerto Rico and a brief service in the Army National Guard. Joel’s career took him and his growing family across the country, from Chicago to Cherry Hill, and eventually to Los Angeles, where they put down roots. Joel always focused on supporting Eileen in anything she wanted to do and truly feels he was the wind beneath her wings.

Joel was predeceased by his son, Robert, and is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Eileen, his children, Mindy and Steven (Lisa), his grandchildren, Will, Luke, Jesse, Jayden, and Astro, his sister, Francine, and his wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins.

Joel’s professional life was distinguished by his long tenure at Coldwell Banker, where he became Vice President and a respected leader in commercial real estate sales and management. He was known for his mentorship, always making time to nurture the careers of young professionals, many of whom went on to achieve great success. His ability to build strong, lasting relationships with his colleagues and clients was unmatched, and his workplace was known for its camaraderie, social events, and team spirit. Joel was a true “second father” to many, organizing golf tournaments, picnics, and even baseball teams for his colleagues, all while infusing his work with his signature humor and warmth.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joel was passionate about giving back to his community. He was an active supporter of various charities and proudly served on the board of Team Prime Time, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for at-risk school children and those with special needs.

Joel developed a passion for magic and entertainment which led him to become a resident of the Magic Castle. There he shared his quick wit and love for sleight-of-hand with the audience. Joel did not need a formal stage, however, and was always thrilled to share a trick or a joke with family and friends, bringing light to others’ days.

Joel was a Little League baseball coach for many years, where he instilled values of respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship in the young athletes he mentored. Whether running marathons, playing tennis, golf, or sharing stories with his grandchildren, Joel’s zest for life was evident in everything he did

Above all, Joel will be remembered for his generous spirit, sense of humor, and deep devotion to his family.

Joel’s family and friends were his greatest treasures. He cherished the weekends spent with his grandchildren, creating memories through meals, golf lessons, and trips to the La Brea Tar Pits. Joel’s compassion, loyalty, and sensitivity touched everyone who knew him. He had a unique ability to make people feel safe, loved, and welcome in his presence, and his home was a haven for all who sought his company. His laughter, his jokes, and that glimmer in his eye will never be forgotten.

Joel’s life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and humor, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service will on Tuesday, November 12th, at 12:00 noon at Hillside Memorial Park.

The family is requesting privacy and there will not be a reception following the service.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Team Prime Time in Joel’s honor. https://teamprimetime.networkforgood.com