Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

The funeral of the late Edgar John Kurtz, who met with such a tragic end in Sydney on Saturday last, took place from St. John's Church, Mudgee, on Tuesday afternoon after an impressive service by Rev. A. G. Powell. Peter Matis, Terry Cooke, Jack Branscombe, Doug Smith and Geoff Holmes, members of the R.A.A.F., to which branch of the services deceased belonged, acted as pall bearers, while members of the A.I.F. marched in the sad procession. The hearse was covered with beautiful floral tributes, some of which came from R.A.A.F. organisations in Sydney. At the graveside the “Last Post” was sounded by Jeff Raper, a member of the forces. The cortege was a large one, many old friends of the family being present to pay a last sad tribute of respect to the memory of a gallant young soul. – Mudgee Guardian, issue dated Thursday July 8, 1943.

News was received in Mudgee on Saturday afternoon that Edgar John Kurtz, a gallant young member of the R.A.A.F., had been killed in a tram accident in Sydney. His intense interest in aircraft led to his untimely end. Planes passing overhead attracted his attention, and he leaned from the tram to follow their flight. In doing so he was struck on the head by another tram, and death was almost instantaneous.
Deceased, who was in his 20th year, was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Stan. Kurtz, well-known residents of Eurunderee, and he spent the greater portion of his life in this district. A fine type of young man, he was held in high esteem, and his tragic passing will be deeply deplored by all those who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. The blow to his parents is a terrible one, and they will have the deepest sympathy of everyone in the community. Arrangements have been made to bring the body to Mudgee, and the funeral will take place to the Church of England portion of the general cemetery to-morrow (Tuesday) afternoon. Messrs. J. C. Swords and Son will be in charge of the arrangements. – Mudgee Guardian, issue dated Monday July 5, 1943.