James R. Kurka

Oct 2, 1947 -

Aug 27, 2023

Loving husband, father, grandpa - "Pop" - and friend James R. Kurka passed away peacefully at his home and joined his Lord and Savior in Heaven on Aug. 27, 2023.

He was born in Minneapolis, Minn., and moved with his family to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1963. Jim attended East Anchorage High School and graduated from University of Alaska Fairbanks with a bachelor's in education. During this time he was a member of the ROTC and after graduation joined the Army Reserves. He later attained master's degrees in administration and counseling at the UA Anchorage campus.

Jim found his passion when becoming a principal. He loved working with families, teachers and the children in his buildings. He continually strove to support students and teachers in being successful learners. Jim spent many summers teaching in the Anchorage School District Leadership Academies. With his wife, Diana, they led classes for administrators and teachers. After retiring he worked with staff at Wellspring Ministry in developing a leadership college for those interested in serving the Lord.

His love of travel took him to the islands of Hawaii. He spent many wonderful vacations there with family and friends. He even did a mission trip with Haggai International on the Island of Maui.

Jim was currently attending Muldoon Community Assembly. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alice; and father, Ralph. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Diana Kurka; three children and their families: Jennifer Kurka; Stephen Kurka and Katya Kalachevskiy and grandchildren Yarik and Vasilissa Kurka; David and Heather Kurka; and Nicole Kimball and Dan Rathert and granddaughter, Brynn Rathert; siblings, Dan and Lonniet Kurka, Kathleen (Kurka) Eustace, DaunMichelle (Kurka) and Steve Gregg, and Kevin Kurka; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Muldoon Community Assembly on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at 12 p.m. A live stream may be viewed at https://mcaak.online.church.

In lieu of flowers, remembrance donations may be sent to The Salvation Army Relief efforts for the Island of Maui and the survivors of the Lahaina fire.