Kurt Payne

Kurt Edwin Payne was born to Lester and Jeanne Payne on March 2, 1943, in Champaign, Illinois, and entered the gates of heaven on October 5, 2024. Kurt was a dedicated son, brother, husband, father, uncle and friend who touched the lives of many with his warmth and kindness.

He is survived by Karen Payne, his wife and devoted partner of nearly 60 years. Together, they raised three dynamic daughters Kari Payne, Kaylyn (Robert) Hudson, and Kolay (Jordan) Carver. Kurt also leaves behind two brothers, Scott (Linda) Payne and Mark Payne; his sister, Iris (Doug) Haskins. His legacy continues through his five cherished grandchildren: Mikayla, Anna, Kolo, Zoli, and Gia, whom he and Karen traveled many miles to see in their various sports and activities.

Kurt made friends wherever he went and never knew a stranger. His warm smile and firm handshake were his trademarks. Throughout his life and career, he gathered friends far and wide, serving as an ag teacher, fertilizer salesman, custom harvester, board member, bus driver, speech judge, and truck driver. Kurt's passion for life was evident in his love for music; he enjoyed singing in church, Broadway tunes on YouTube, and he never missed a chance to two-step or square dance with Karen or his girls.

For many years, you could find him riding horses, roping calves, honing his shooting skills, discussing the crops, or working in the shop. His bull riding career was cut short by the birth of his first daughter, at his wife's direction. Conversations with Kurt covered a wide range of topics, from trucks and combines to horses and cowboy poetry, and the weather. A devoted elder in his church, Kurt never missed an opportunity to share the message of Christ and the greatest gift of salvation.

A memorial service to celebrate Kurt's life will be held on Saturday, October 12, at 2:00 pm Mountain Time at New Life Fellowship Church, 617 W Fourth St, in Grant, Nebraska. Family and friends are invited to join us to celebrate Kurt's life. A reception will directly follow the service, as we know the stories will continue. There will be no interment of ashes at this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Perkins County Health Services or the Perkins County High School FFA Chapter in Kurt's memory. Condolences may be sent to Karen Payne, 75990 Road 331, Grant, Nebraska 69140, or online by visiting www.bullocklongfuneralhome.com.

Kurt Payne's life was a testament to his faith, love for his family, and dedication to his community. In closing, we know that he would say, "Blessings on you."