John M. Kurta

Of Monroeville, age 71, died unexpectedly on Friday, September 17, 2021.

John was the beloved husband of Roberta “Bobbie” (Samsa) Kurta for 31 years.

Father of John (Kelly) Kurta, Jr. of Wexford, Sean (Jackie) Kurta of White Oak, Craig Kurta of West Mifflin and Juli Kurta of Monroeville.

Grandfather of Nicole (Jeremy) Ireland, Justin Kurta and Xavier Moore.

Great-grandfather of Jazlynn, Liam and Vada.

Brother of Mark Kurta, Ron (Debbie) Kurta, Kevin (Sue) Kurta and Shawn (Melina) Pruszko.

In high school, John was a Golden Glove boxer and, while just in his late teens, he became well-known for drag racing his car, “The Outlaw”, at various area tracks.

 Upon leaving high school early, John became employed with U.S. Steel Duquesne Works. While employed with USSteel, and after earning his G.E.D., the company sent him to further his education at Carnegie Mellon University. Attending classes during the day, in the evening and on weekends, he achieved his degree from Carnegie Mellon. He applied his education for the company in the field of Turbine Engineering, and, he did auto body work as a side job.  After the plant closed in the 1980’s, John continued his auto body work and drove school bus for Woodland Hills School District. Eventually John became a full-time employee with Woodland Hills in their Transportation Department, servicing the fleet of buses with mechanical and body work. When the Transportation Department was phased out due to contracting with a private bus company, John transferred to the Woodland Hills Buildings and Grounds Department from where he retired.

John always was an automotive enthusiast and enjoyed buying cars, fixing them and selling them at a profit. He also loved to ride motorcycles. John's other passionate pastime was visiting yard sales and flea markets.

Friends are welcome on Monday from 4-8pm at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350 where a Blessing Service will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m.

Interment will be private.