Margaret Kurtz

Margaret "Peggy" (Criss) Kurtz, a beacon of love and joy, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2024, in Beloit, Ohio, at the age of 88. Born on June 15, 1935, in Berlin Center, Ohio, to the late Thurman and Caroline (Cummins) Criss, Peggy was a cherished figure in her community and a source of unwavering kindness to all who knew her.

Peggy was a proud graduate of Goshen High School's class of 1954. Her passion for education led her to volunteer tirelessly at Beloit Elementary School, where she touched the lives of countless students with her warmth and encouragement. Peggy's commitment to service extended beyond the classroom as she was an active and dedicated member of the Beloit Friends Church. There, she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and worked diligently on dinners and projects for the Beloit Ruritans.

In addition to her community involvement, Peggy had a zest for life that was evident in her many interests. She was a masterful cook, known for her canning abilities and particularly for making the best sauerkraut in the county. Peggy's love for singing was only matched by her love for travel, and she seized every opportunity to explore new places with her beloved husband and family. Her home was filled with a unique collection of chickens, reflecting her spirited and eclectic nature.

Above all, Peggy was a loving and devoted family woman. She was the adored wife of the late Frank Kurtz, to whom she was married for a remarkable 68 years. Her legacy lives on through her children, Frank Kurtz Jr. of Alliance, Ohio, and Marsha (Frank) Stillion of Beloit, Ohio. Peggy was a doting grandmother to Holly (Joshua) DeVore, Christopher (Jessica) Stillion, and Tyler (Andrea) Stillion, and a proud great-grandmother to Evelyn, Caelyn, Josh, and Alainah Stillion, as well as Joshua DeVore, Jayson, and Dominic Symoni.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter Beverly Kurtz Armitage, son-in-law Ronald Armitage, and 13 siblings, leaving behind a legacy of familial devotion that will continue to inspire future generations.

Those who knew Peggy would describe her as kind, spirited, and loving-a woman whose presence would light up a room and whose laughter was infectious. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel at home, and her generous spirit made her an unforgettable pillar in her community.

A funeral service to celebrate the life of Peggy will take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Beloit Evangelical Friends Church with Pastor Mark Reich officiating. Friends and family will be received the hour prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. You may watch a live stream of Peggy's services by visiting her online obituary. Interment will take place at Highland Memorial Park, Beloit. You may view the obituary and sign the guest register online at www.grfuneralhoem.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gednetz-Ruzek-Brown Funeral Home, Sebring, 330-938-2526 .