Kurt Joseph Englehart
RENO - Kurt Joseph Englehart of Reno, Nevada tragically left the world too soon on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in a fatal hit-and-run car accident. Kurt was born on July 7, 1985, to the late Daniel Lee Englehart and to Luann Englehart/Sheets in Zanesville, Ohio. He was a loving father to his son Ender Fox Englehart, who was the center of his universe. He is survived by his brother, Matthew Sheets of Zanesville, OH; step-brother, Dustin Sheets of Los Angeles, CA; step-father, Charles Sam Sheets of Zanesville, OH; girlfriend, Siya Phillips of Boston, MA; aunt and uncle Susie and Dean Bayse on his father’s side, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins on his mother’s side; and Ender’s mother Shaila Debolt.
Kurt graduated from Tri-Valley High School in Dresden, Ohio and attended Zane State in Zanesville and Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio, where he earned degrees in political science and public administration.
Kurt was a skilled political strategist who dutifully served his country while working for Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign and then for the U.S. Senate. He spent most of his career serving U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, both in a campaign and official capacity. On her campaign, he served as Political Director for Rural Nevada and played a key role in her 2022 victory. He most recently worked as Senior Advisor in Cortez Masto’s official office in Reno. His many accomplishments, charisma, and ability to form meaningful relationships were recognized in a recent promotion. Regardless of his position, Kurt was purpose-driven in his dedication to advocate for others and cultivate a democracy that is accessible to everyone. He worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those in rural Nevada and he was especially motivated in his support for Indigenous communities, cattlemen, miners, and underrepresented populations. All those he met can share stories of his kindness, sharp wit, and willingness to drop everything for someone in need. Kurt was respected and admired by colleagues and opponents alike for his integrity, intelligence, and humor.
Kurt loved reading, history, philosophy, dystopian worlds, rural America, and playing League of Legends and World of Warcraft, where he forged many important friendships. Most of all, he loved his son Ender. Kurt adored being a father and wanted to be the best father he could be. He took the job seriously and often credited his motivation and drive to his love for his son. Kurt was also a devoted son and brother, a loving partner, and a best friend. If you were fortunate enough to be loved by Kurt, then you know that he loved and championed you at your worst and at your best. His loyalty and devotion will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 12 pm at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. Please honor Kurt by remembering to vote in your local and national elections, and by taking time to learn about the issues and needs of your neighbors. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Ender Englehart Education Fund by visiting www.kurtenglehart.com and using the code 34k-674.