ROCHELLE — Lyle Dean Kurz, 66, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 26 at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon.

Lyle was born on July 8, 1955, the son of Harold W. and E. Louise (Balch) Kurz in Rochelle. While attending Rochelle Township High School, he played football and graduated in 1974. He went on to attend the University of Illinois where he was the manager of the men’s basketball team, graduating with a degree in agronomy.  

Over the years, he farmed with his father and brother, retiring in 2020. He was a member of the Pine Tree Pistol Club and a NRA instructor.  He was an avid reader and a train fan.  

Lyle is survived by his mother, Louise Kurz of Byron; brother, Barry Kurz of Lindenwood and Cathy Kurz of Jefferson, Louisiana. He is preceded in death by his father, Harold in 2002.

The visitation will be from 9:30-11 a.m., Friday, Oct. 1 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle.  The funeral will follow at 11 a.m. Friday with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating. Burial is at Lindenwood Cemetery in Lindenwood. Memorials may be made in Lyle’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.