Jeanette "Nettie" Marie Kurtz

Jeanette Kurtz passed away peacefully at her home in Harris on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the age of 91.

A lifelong resident of Harris, Minnesota, Jeanette Marie Bjorklund was born on June 27, 1934, on the family farm, to Eric and Jennie (Johnson) Bjorklund. Jeanette graduated from North Branch High School in 1951 and married Howard Kurtz on March 12, 1955. Together, she and Howard raised six daughters and created lasting memories at her home of nearly 60 years with their 15 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Faith, family, and friends were at the center of Jeanette’s life. Jeanette worked many years outside the home as a housekeeper for several families who became lifelong friends. Gifted at playing the piano, she shared her love of music at Harris Covenant Church, where she faithfully led Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Each week, she hosted Sunday dinners for her daughters and their families. She was appreciated by and grateful for all her sons-in-law who adored her. She delighted in rocking a baby in her arms or visiting with company on her deck swing, always welcoming them with open doors and a fresh pot of coffee.

Jeanette loved camping, especially her and Howard’s annual Fourth of July trip to Lake Beauty Bible Camp. She also enjoyed gardening, sewing and embroidery, was part of the Covenant Woman church group and watched football games on Sundays. With an impeccable memory, she never missed a birthday or anniversary, faithfully sending cards and staying connected through her tablet, cherishing every photo and message she received. Jeanette always had a beloved dog, and her most recent companion, Buddy, was an energetic and loyal presence at her side.

Jeanette’s life was defined by strength, a steadfast love for the Lord, and a deep, generous devotion to her family and friends. As the cornerstone of the family, she will be eternally cherished for the unconditional love she gave to them.

Jeanette is survived by her children Janice (Steve) Balfanz of North Branch, Jerilyn (Steve) Shodahl of North Branch, Jalayne Larson (Jim Bartylla) of Bertha, Jenae (Jeffrey) Kvale of North Branch, Joy Heilmer (David Maack) of North Branch; son-in-law Phil Perrault of Big Lake; grandchildren Chad Balfanz, Stephanie (Tom) Deiss, Emily (Michael) Walter, Jonathan Thornton, Jennifer (Brian) Jagusch, Greg (Anne) Perrault, Brian (Kelly) Perrault, Justin Lind (Brenda Raygor), Jason (Jeni) Lind, Lacey (DJ) FitzGerald, Tabitha (Jeff) Johnson, Tara (Jeremy) Bzdok, Blake Kvale (Breanne Mahoney), Brandon (Kayla) Kvale, Livingston Heilmer (Sean Brennan); her many great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; sisters Lillian (Arlen) Svare of Paynesville, Jeanine Fairbanks of Harris; and a host of extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Eric and Jennie Bjorklund; beloved husband Howie Kurtz; daughter Julie Perrault; granddaughter Erin Thornton; son-in-law, Vern Heilmer; and siblings Lorraine (Bill) Weiser, Myron (Lillian) Ostlund, Walt (Kay) Ostlund, Lucille (Al) Lindh; and brother-in-law Melvin Fairbanks.

Pastor Tracy Welker will officiate at Nettie's funeral service: 1 PM; Saturday, January 17, 2026 with a time of visitation 2 hours prior to the service all at the Harris Covenant Church. The interment will take place in the Harris Covenant Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City ~ Olson Chapelwww.FuneralAndCremationService.com