Jackie L. Kurek, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at Spectrum Hospital – Lakeland, St. Joseph, MI.
She was born in Dearborn, MI on July 3, 1948, the daughter of Paul and Doris (Kirshman) Matthis. Her early childhood was spent in Dearborn and Allen Park, Michigan, where she attended the public schools. After graduating high school Jackie attended Western Michigan University and obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree (1971) and Master of Arts degree (1976) and a Certificate in Early Childhood Endorsement (1976).
She eventually settled in Bridgman, MI, where she became a beloved and dedicated kindergarten teacher at Bridgman Elementary School. Jackie was famous for her Mother’s Day Teas and Father’s Day activities known as “Donuts with Dad.” She was kind and generous to many, but especially to her kindergartners and their families. She was also active in the Bridgman Education Association and on various curriculum committees. Jackie was also known for volunteering at the Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, MI, and the Sarett Nature Center in Benton Harbor, MI.
Above all, Jackie had great love for her family, friends and her cats. Some of the other things that Jackie loved were line dancing, snow shoeing, collecting antiques, shopping and travel.
Jackie was a devoted sister, friend and teacher. Whenever she was around you would always be laughing and having a lot of fun. Because of her vibrant personality, she never met a stranger.
Not only was she a talented teacher, and superb story teller, more importantly she was a good woman. Four words to describe Jackie are, “Beloved, Fun, Patient, and Kind.”
Jackie was predeceased by her father Paul Matthis and her mother Doris Matthis Mamchur. Jackie is survived by her sisters, Sharon Doucette of Bellingham, MA, Stephanie Mamchur of Kirkland, WA, Suzanne Boyette of Allen, TX, and Timothy Strefling, her fiancé.
Jackie’s family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to all those who were kind and caring throughout Jackie’s life.
Due to COVID-19 a “celebration of her life” will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bridgman Foundation for Educational Excellence, 9964 Gast Rd, Bridgman, MI 49106, or Bridgman Public Library, 4460 Lake St. Bridgman, MI 49106, or Harbor Country Mission at 9600 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman, MI 49106.
Offer Condolence for the family of Jacqueline “Jackie” L. Kurek
Print Obituary & Condolences
Tamara Gallo
Jackie was such an excellent teacher to 2 of my children. They as I will always treasure her enthusiasm for teaching and nurturing her kindergarteners! I once wrote a letter to our local newspaper praising her for going above and beyond as a teacher. I will always love her and remember her.
Julie Brincks Pyburn
Jackie was my kindgarten teacher, I so remember her mother day teas and donuts with dad, she was amazing teacher and friend everybody loved her, my thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends
Jenny Brincks Cooper
Jackie, was my Kindergarten teacher. She loved teaching. She loved the kids that she taught. And later, came a wonderful friend. Jackie will be missed.
Heidi Neiman
I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher than Ms. Kurek. My oldest son was blessed to have her 2 years in a row. He was a young 4 year old who needed her guidance and love. She always treated the children as if they were one of her own. I will always remember the Mothers Day Teas and the tears of joy that she shed. She took pride in each and everyone of her students. My condolences to the family. May she Rest In Peace…💕
Amanda Moore
Awe….Mrs. Kurek was my lifelong favorite teacher! I had her for 2 years in kindergarten when I repeated due to just turning 5 a few days after school started. She told me I was chosen to be her special helper. She was the greatest and will be sadly missed.
Sara Maxam
Jackie was a wonderful kindergarten teacher for my two children. Countless other children and families were blessed by her dedication and love. We grew to be good friends. I will miss her enthusiasm, love and energy. My condolences to her family and friends for the loss of this dear lady.
Mellisa tyler
I loved her so much! She was my kindergarten teacher! Sending prayers to the family.
Shari Toth Wallace
Mrs. Kurek was my favorite teacher! She actually taught second grade for a short time before she moved to Kindergarten, which is where she taught me. I just loved everything about her. She taught us how to make French Toast. We sang Pumpkin Caroles. We learned a little about Greenland and it was fascinating. She made learning fun. God has gained a beautiful new angel.
Catherine Sommer
Jackie worked at Bridgman Elementary School with my husband Bob Sommer. She also taught most of my children. She was loved by everyone who knew her. She will be missed by all of us.
Christin Moneta-Rice
I had her as my teacher in 2nd grade in the 70’s at Bridgman Elementary. Loved her so much and sorry to hear of her passing. Blessings and prayers to her family.
Yvonne and Ken Kieft
Jackie used to house sit for us and watch out little dog when ever we went on vacation. She treated our puppy like she was part of the family. Our home was always cleaner and more organized when we returned. Our children loved her as their teacher. You will be greatly missed.
Treasa K
Going to be truly missed. She was an amazing teacher/person. Spent lots of time with her at the school and her home.
Kirsten Ruff (Emery)
My heart breaks with the news of Mrs. Kurek passing. She was my Kindergarten teacher and the reason I became a teacher! I wanted to touch children’s hearts and minds the way she did so eloquently! She was my mentor and my reference on my resume for many years! She was so kind, caring and compassionate about her students I could only hope to be as amazing as she was! May she rest in peace! You will be missed!
Heidi Siewert Schmaltz
So sorry to hear of Mrs. Kurek’s passing. She was my wonderful kindergarten teacher. What an amazing way to start school. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.