Fred K. Kurtz

Fredric Kohler Kurtz, 78, of Livingston, Montana, formerly of, Philadelphia, PA, passed away Saturday, November 7th, 2015 at Livingston Healthcare Hospital. Cremation has taken place at Franzen-Davis Crematory, A non-formal Memorial Gathering will be held from 5-8pm, Monday November 30th, at The Livingston Bar and Grille. Fred was born on November 25th 1937, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of Girvin Loos Kurtz and Marion Catharine Kohler. Fred received his education in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, and was a graduate of Roxborough High School Class of 1955. In high school Freds nickname was Bucky, he was voted most artistic and was class treasurer. In 1952 he received the American Legion Certificate of School award, a certificate of distinguished achievement. After high school Fred attended the Philadelphia Museum College of Art, where he received his degree in Advertising Design on June 6, 1960. After graduating from art school, Fred was first employed by TV Guide, working for the art department in Philadelphia PA in the late 1950s, early 1960s. In 1961 Fred was drafted into the United States Army where he served for two years. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1963. After being discharged from the army, Fred returned to Philadelphia working for TV Guide. Due to his freelance contacts he was able to move on and work for himself. Fred was a prolific artist. As a commercial artist, Fred received numerous awards and recognitions. To name a few: The 42nd Annual Art Directors Club of Philadelphia "Best of Everything Award" was presented to Fred for his "Dix and Designs" Book. At the 30th annual exhibition of the Art Directors Club of Philadelphia, in 1965, Fred was awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" presented for excellence in visual communication. In 1967, Fred received the "Award of Excellence" from the Art Directors Club of Philadelphia at the 32nd Annual Exhibition. Again in 1969, at the 34th Annual Exhibition, Fred received another "Award of Excellence" from the Art Directors Club of Philadelphia. In 1979 Fred got married, and was soon blessed with his first and only child Kohler Rodric Kurtz. Fred retired to Livingston in 1998 to live close to his son Rod and to focus on his art projects. From spray painting, house painting, and carpentry, Freds work can be found in many of the local Livingston businesses, restaurants, and residences. He was always quick to make friends with his conversation, and loved to meet new people. On any given evening he could be found listening to live music downtown, hanging out with his friends at Glens Place, or visiting with his son while he worked. One of his passions was cooking, he would go to the grocery store just about every day, for fresh food to cook for himself. He often shared his cooking with friends and family, or anyone who looked a little hungry. He volunteered his time around town, and often helped out at counterpoint. His true passion in life was art. In his high school yearbook his ambition was to become a commercial artist, and he accomplished that early in his life. He continued his passion throughout his entire life, and his work and ambition lives on today through his art. Because of his huge heart and ability to have a conversation with anyone, about anything, Fred will be a character that is greatly missed in the Livingston community. In loving memory of Fred Kurtz, Father, friend, and Livingston Renaissance man. Arrangements are under the care of Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory.