Kurtz, Claire

64, of Chandler Arizona on December 18 after defeating GBM brain cancer for 28 months Claire peacefully from her bed at home joined her parents in everlasting life. Born April 18, 1948 to George and Genevieve Kurtz in Port Chester, New York and is preceded in death by her parents, and her nephew Greg Daskam. She is survived by her husband David Goertz, her sister Georgene Kurtz Daskam , her nephew Jon Daskam, his wife Daniella as well as many uncles, aunts and cousins. Claire attended Port Chester High School where she grew her appreciation of the theater. She graduated with honors and earned a scholarship which she used to attend Hunter College in New York City. Claire rode the train into the city daily from her home and graduated with a Psychology Major; Magna Cum Laude; Phi Beta Kappa. Claire earned another scholarship which she used to Attend ASU. Part of her studies required a one year internship that Claire fulfilled at the University of Colorado Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. It was during this time that she met her husband David and they were inseparable for the next 39 years. Claire earned her Masters and PH.D in Clinical Psychology at ASU. Claire received her license the 17th day of November, 1978. Claire was a Psychology Consultant to the Gila River Indian Community, a Clinical Psychologist Clinician for Tri-City, became Clinical Coordinator for Camelback Community Counseling followed by being Director of Programs and Clinical Services for Phoenix Camelback Hospital. In 1991, Claire started her Private Practice which became fulltime in 1995 at her office in Tempe, AZ. Claire served on various boards as well as being a founding member of the East Valley Repertory Company. Claire was an actress in many of their productions and hoped to become re-involved with theater in retirement. Claire also had an immense art talent and enjoyed drawing, sketching and most of all watercolors. Claire was a compassionate woman and there was not a person who was in contact with her who didn’t feel better for it. She touched the lives of so many. Not only her clients but her professional associates as well. Her husband cherishes the 39 years he was privileged to share with Claire and was so happy to spend the last 28 months by her side and giving her the best care he could while she bravely and courageously lived her final months. Claire had many charities that she gave to and rather than suggesting a particular one, perhaps a donation to a charity that you find appropriate would be appreciated. Her husband David was grateful for the help that Hospice of the Valley afforded us. There will be a visitation on Monday January 7, 2013 - 6-8 PM at Bueler Chandler Mortuary, 14 Hulet Dr Chandler AZ. 85225 (480)9636351. A funeral Mass will be on Tuesday January 8, at 10 AM at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, 3450 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85226