John J. Kurtz was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, in 1924 to Philip and Katherine Kurtz. He was married in 1954 to Monica Kurtz and they had one son, James. john received his education in Regina and was involved in business for over sixty years, most recently in the Assiniboia Gallery and as manager for Allen Sapp, along with Monica and son James, who passed away in 1996.

John has served as a Sunday School Teacher, superintendent, church board member and president, member of the Board of Regents Luther College, and a member of the Church Council Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. He has been involved in a number of publications, including "Two Spirits Soar, I heard the drums" and "Treasured Moments." John is a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Regina, the Council of Advisors, Regina Symphony Orchestra, and past president and member of the Kiwanis club of Regina.