Francis Kurrie

Francis Kurrie, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on December 2, 1940, Francis led a life characterized by simplicity, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the joy found in everyday moments.

Francis was born to Theresa and Frank Kurrie and was raised in a loving household in Detroit, Michigan on Detroit's east side Harper & Van Dyke area as the middle child of three. He graduated from St. Thomas the Apostle in 1958, where he made a mark as a lettered athlete in two varsity sports and as Student Council President. His pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of Iowa, where he earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in 1963, becoming a member of Pi Tau Sigma, a national honorary Mechanical Engineering fraternity, and serving as President of the local chapter of Phi Kappa Theta, a men's Catholic social fraternity. 

His professional career spanned multiple distinguished roles. He was a Michigan Licensed Master Plumber, Boiler Installer, and Mechanical Contractor. Francis dedicated 23 years to Frank Kurrie Inc. as a mechanical contractor and 13 years of that as its President. He spent 17 years as a Project Manager for Christopher Construction Co. He also served for 15 years as the Director of the Detroit Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association; the youngest person elected to that position. Francis was also the Management Trustee for the Plumber's #98 & Pipe Fitter's #636 Pension Trust Fund for 12 years. His contributions to the industry were profound, embodying a commitment to excellence that inspired many.

A devoted family man, Francis married his wife Elaine on November 28, 1964, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Harper Woods. Together they shared a nurturing home filled with love. He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his son, Peter Kurrie; his son Paul, married to Jennifer; and his grandchildren: Alexander (Katie), Daniel, Kendall, Katelyn, Joshua, and Ryan. He is also remembered fondly by his sister, Sr. Maria, and brother, Charles (Charlotte).

Francis knew how to embrace life, living out his motto, "Never complain, never explain," attributed to H. Ford II. He found joy in travel, having visited 46 states and most Canadian provinces. A lover of literature, he filled his spare time with historical biographies and novels, and his musical taste leaned towards the smooth sounds of the Eagles and Frankie Valli. Among his favorite songs were “You Raise Me Up” and “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” He was known for his love of any dish prepared with garlic, a testament to his appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

In addition to his family and career, Francis was actively engaged in his community, volunteering as the President of the Mott High School Booster Club from 1984 - 1985 and contributing to the AARP Taxi-Aide Program as the Warren Local Coordinator from 2013 - 15 and as the District 18 Coordinator from 2016 until his passing. His unwavering dedication to his church, St. Louise de Marillac, further illustrates the depth of his character and commitment to service. At the church, he served as the Parish Council President from 2001 - 03 and as a member on the Finance Commission from 2011 - 19.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Kurrie and Theresa Kurrie, who instilled in him the values he carried throughout his life.

Visitation for Francis will be held at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan, on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a Rosary Service at 3:30 PM. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at St. Louise de Marillac Catholic Church, commencing at 10:00 AM.

Francis Kurrie's legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. In closing, please keep close to your hearts a couple of Francis' favorite sayings in life: "I've learned that...people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - M. Angelou and "To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place.

In Lieu of Flowers, please consider making a donation to one of Francis' favorite charities - Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis

For those that would like to mail a check to the convent you can do so to the following P.O. Box:

Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis - Mission Advancement Office, P.O. Box 305, Stevens Point, WI 54481-0305