Wantagh Native Preston Kurtz Dies at 61

Wantagh native Preston Jay Kurtz, who lived in Southampton during his later years, died on May 14 from a cardiac event. He was 61 years. 

Kurtz was born on July 15, 1950, in Brooklyn and grew up in Wantagh. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from SUNY Buffalo and was married to Shelley Brill Kurtz, of East Hampton, from 1974 to 1986.

Kurtz worked at in Sag Harbor, where he enjoyed selling paint, for 25 years. Preston enjoyed writing poetry and songs, playing his guitar and accordion, going out to eat, and watching sports on television. Most of all he relished the time he spent with his children.

Kurtz had a keen sense of humor and a quick wit. He is survived by his son, Orin Kurtz, of Manhattan, his daughter, Nathania Kurtz, of Brooklyn, and his sister, Dayna King, of Point Lookout.

Visitation was held on Thursday at the O'Connell Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service led by Rabbi Howard Diamond. Interment took place at Southampton Cemetery

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