Obituary of Leo W. Urtz

Leo W. Urtz, 88, of Westernville, passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Rome Health with family by his side. He was born in Rome on July 30, 1935, a son of the late Leo F. and Marjorie (Clark) Urtz. He was a graduate of Rome Free Academy, Class of 1954, and on September 6, 1958, he was united in marriage to Doris Kay Reese, a blessed union of 65 years.

Leo served in the Army National Guard for six years. He worked for Verizon for 42 years before retiring in 1998. He was a communicant at St. John’s Roman Catholic Church in Rome.

Leo was one of the founding members of the Tappet-Twirlers Car Club. He loved to be at Fred’s wood shop, working away right next to Fred and his beloved brother, Carl. He looked forward to spending time with family and friends at his camp on Kayuta Lake.

Surviving besides his loving wife, Kay, are three daughters, Jean Andrews (Thomas), Susan Lauricella (Domenico), and Sharon Purner (James); a son, Thomas Urtz (Teri); his brother, Carl Urtz (Mae); seven grandchildren, Matthew Andrews (Tara), Zachary Andrews (Payton), Santino Lauricella (Kathleen), Katia Clark (Zachary), Ashley Edwards (William), Logan Purner and Alex Purner; five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  

Leo’s family would like to thank the Doctors, nurses and staff at Rome Health for their compassionate care  

In keeping with Leo’s wishes, his body has been donated to the SUNY Upstate Medical University’s Anatomical Gift Program. A memorial service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Leo’s memory to the Volunteer Fire Company of Western.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc. 418 N. George St., Rome NY 13440

You may view the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.