Stephen Kurth
Mar 20, 1942 -
Jun 21, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stephen Douglas Kurth on June 21, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 84 years old. Stephen was a devoted life partner, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who was deeply loved by his family and the many people whose lives he touched.
Stephen was born on March 20, 1942, in Ackley, Iowa, to Irene (Lockman) Kurth and Julius Kurth. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Jay Kurth. He is survived by his brother, Michael Kurth; sisters, Susan Swart and Debra Kurth; four daughters, Ruth, Beth, Bobbie Jean (Molle) and Dominique; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his beloved life partner of 36 years, Grace Frier.
Stephen married Patricia (Thompson) Kurth of Ackley, and together they began raising their family. After earning his degree in civil engineering, they moved their family to Alaska, where Stephen began his career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He later enjoyed a long career with the Federal Aviation Administration before pursuing commercial fishing—a lifelong dream he had shared with his father.
A passionate outdoorsman, Stephen passed his love of Alaska's wilderness on to his children and countless friends. He built a cabin near Talkeetna, where family and friends gathered to enjoy camping, fishing, hunting and creating lasting memories. He also cherished traveling the Alaska Highway and exploring the Lower 48 with Grace and their beloved border collies, Bonnie and Clyde.
Stephen's deep appreciation for the natural world extended beyond recreation. Throughout his life, he supported the protection and preservation of wildlife and their habitats, reflecting his enduring respect for the beauty of Alaska and the outdoors.
Stephen lived a life filled with adventure. His kindness, generosity and adventurous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.
