Lola Ann Kurtz

Salem - Lola Ann Kurtz, 77, of Salem, passed away January 29, 2015 surrounded by family in her home after a lingering illness of Alzheimer's.

Born June 3, 1937, Lola Ann was the only child born to Clarence and Doris Charlton Sheller in Youngstown, OH. She grew up in Greenford where she graduated from Greenford High School as salutatorian of her class of 1955. On June 12, 1955 Lola Ann married Edgar Kurtz and together they enjoyed a life together while raising their family as part of Kurtz Farms. She grew a large garden, helped on the farm and shared her hospitality to many. Later in life, Lola Ann became a nurse at Salem Hospital.

Lola Ann was a member of Leetonia Mennonite Church where she led and participated in many of the church activities. Her faith was evident in her walk in life, such as starting the children’s puppet ministry at church and singing church songs with the grandchildren while swinging on the front porch swing. For many years she was a part of the Prison Ministry for Women that was sponsored by the Gideon's as well as supporting the Gideon ministry. Lola Ann served on the Mahoning County Farm Bureau Board for many years.

Over the years Lola Ann and Eddie were able to travel extensively, visiting Hawaii, the Caribbean and Europe. Each summer the family spent time on Kentucky Lake where many memories were made. For the past several years they were able to get away from the winter by spending time in Florida enjoying their motor home as a home away from home.

Survivors include Edgar, children Sherri Goodwin (Dean), Dan (Priscilla), Linda Witmer (Mark), nine grandchildren and spouses and great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank those that have offered care including her sister-in-law, Anna Marie Kurtz, caretaker Emma Nason, Hospice, and others who have helped these past few months.

Services will be held at Leetonia Mennonite Church on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at 10:30 AM with Pastor Phil Slabaugh officiating. Burial will follow in Midway Mennonite Cemetery. Calling hours will be at the church on Monday, February 2 from 5 -9 PM with a Gideon service at the close of calling hours. Friends may also call at the church one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Memorial contributions can be made to Gideon International.

Arrangements are being made by the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home, Leetonia. Sign the register and send condolences at www.familycareservices.com