State Representative Ken Kurtz was elected to his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2008, representing Hillsdale and Branch county residents.

COMMITTEE INTERESTS

Ken has an interest in agricultural, veterans and homeland security issues, and committees geared toward improving the economy with tourism and creating jobs.

EDUCATION

Kurtz graduated from Worsham School of Mortuary Science in Chicago, with a mortuary science degree. He also attended Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, and Bethel College in Mishawaka, Ind.

PROFESSIONAL

Kurtz is a former small-business owner who owned and operated three funeral homes in the area. Kurtz also served as pastor of the United Brethen Church in Coldwater.

PUBLIC OFFICES AND AFFILIATIONS

Kurtz has served on the Board of Directors for Hands for Mercy and the Reading Emergency Unit. He also is a member of the North Adams Lions Club, Coldwater Exchange Club, Hillsdale Chamber of Commerce and is a member of Gideon's International. He also served on the Governmental Relations Committee for the Michigan Funeral Directors Association and served as president of District 2 for the MFDA.

PERSONAL

Ken and his wife, Diane, have been married for 34 years and have two adult children. Ken enjoys hunting, fishing and singing gospel music.

PUBLIC SERVICE

Ken was named the Citizen of the Year for 2005-06 by the Hillsdale Elks, as well as 2004 Citizen of the Year by North Adams Community. Ken also has served on the organizing committee for North Adams Heritage Days.