D. Kurtz Stiteler passed into heaven on September 11, 2026, at the age of 90.
He is survived by his four children, Kelly (Bob) Jorgensen, Kathy (Kenneth) Cole, Jim (Michelle) Stiteler and Joy (Kenny) Miller; eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Kurtz served in the U. S. Navy for 4 years. When asked about his favorite memory of the Navy, his reply was “Taking the night watch” because he loved to look at the multitude of stars while on the carrier. He had many other jobs in his lifetime, but the one he enjoyed most was teaching Metal Shop at Spot Lowe Vocational School at MCHS, where the students affectionately nicknamed him Papa Smurf. He not only taught them how to weld, but also how to succeed in life. He was a great example–full of integrity, kindness, and patience. He loved engineering and building, gardening, going to yard sales, walking all over Lewisburg and helping out at the library. What he loved most was talking with everyone he met and spending time with family. He looked forward to heaven and being with Jesus. Now he is finally home.
Visitation will be held at London Funeral Home, 324 W. Church Street, Lewisburg, TN, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm with the funeral service at noon.
London Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
