Jesse A. Kurka, 41, of Troy, Missouri, was born on September 15, 1984, in Bridgeton, Missouri, to Gerald and Margie (Gerdts) Kurka.

Jesse worked at Earthwise Industries for over three years. He was an avid sports fan, especially Mizzou football, which was his favorite. He also enjoyed following the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, the Rams, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Kansas City Royals. Jesse loved the music of Lee Greenwood, especially the song "I'm Proud to Be an American." He was baptized on October 7, 1984 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in North St. Louis. Jesse was confirmed on May 21, 2000 at Holy Cross Lutheran in South St. Louis. His confirmation verse was ,"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Phillippines 4:13.

He enjoyed fishing, watching wrestling, and spending time outdoors. Jesse loved nature, especially watching deer, and found joy in life's simple pleasures.

He is survived by his parents, Gerald and Margie Kurka of Troy; two brothers, Emanuel Kurka and his wife, Jessica, of Overland, Missouri, and David Kurka of Troy; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1307 Boone Street, Troy, Missouri 63379. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the church, with Pastor Jeremiah Guench officiating. Interment will follow at St. Charles Memorial Gardens in St. Charles, Missouri.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Troy, Missouri, c/o the funeral home.

Jesse will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.