Eric Lawerence Kurtenbach

Eric Lawrence Kurtenbach, 61, of Lisbon, Iowa, died Monday, March 9, 2026, at his home. Born on September 26, 1964, in New Hampton, Iowa, to Larry O. Kurtenbach and Jeanette E. (Winter) Kurtenbach, Eric graduated from Waukon High School in 1983. He spent many years working as a millwright and laborer, becoming a talented welder known for his ability to repair or rework nearly anything set before him. With a natural gift for solving problems, he took quiet pride in figuring things out and bringing them back to life.

From a young age, Eric had an instinctive connection to machines, animals, and the outdoors. He rode motorcycles with skill and confidence and could just as easily saddle a horse to help round up cattle on the farm. A true jack-of-all-trades, he was rarely without a project, always tinkering and creating.

Though he had a quiet nature and blended easily into any setting, those closest to him cherished his unique sense of humor and the generous heart behind it. He cared deeply for his family and especially treasured time spent with his nieces and nephews. He also held a special place in his heart for his beloved St. Bernard, Zoey, who passed away in 2018.

Eric is survived by his mother, Jeanette E. Kurtenbach of La Joya, Texas; his brothers, Joel Kurtenbach of Lisbon, Iowa, and Lee Kurtenbach of Mechanicsville, Iowa; and his sisters, Nancy (Gary) Messner of Caledonia, Minnesota, Lora (Roger) Knott of Lansing, Iowa, and Peggy Donohoe of Lisbon, Iowa. He leaves behind his nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry O. Kurtenbach.