Kurt Foreman

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Kurt Foreman, a talented musician, devoted Godly, family man, and proud member of the Cherokee Nation, passed away on August 20, 2023. He was born on April 13, 1928, in Oaks, Oklahoma, to his parents, Charley "Chief" Foreman and Bertha Foreman Odle.

Growing up, Kurt's passion for music flourished as he played alongside his father in the family band, which traveled extensively across the United States, captivating audiences with their melodic performances. One memorable stop was at a carnival in Oklahoma where a monkey known as "Maggie Murphy," performed, etching an unforgettable memory in Kurt's mind.

During the Korean conflict from 1950 to 1952, Kurt dutifully served in the army. He underwent basic training at Camp Roberts, California, and later found himself in Korea, aboard the M.M. Patrick for his deployment and returning home on the W. O. Black. Kurt had aspirations of becoming a paratrooper with the United States Air Force, leading him to re-enlist and eventually rise through the ranks to become a lineman instructor. His service took him to Japan in the early 1960s, and after 20 years, he retired from the military in 1974.

On May 13, 1962, Kurt married Shirley Emberson, exchanging vows at the Northside Pentecostal Church of God in Wichita Falls, TX, where Shirley's father served as a pastor. Kurt himself was an ordained minister with the Pentecostal Church of God. Together, Kurt and Shirley, affectionately known as "Shurt and Kirley," shared their faith through their mutual love for music. Over the years, they dedicated themselves to spreading their beliefs and love through music and preaching, embarking on journeys throughout the Midwest during the 1980s with their children and Kurt's brother Ken.

Kurt was not only a talented musician but also a prolific American Indian artist, taking immense pride in his Cherokee heritage. Throughout his life, he crafted numerous exquisite beaded belts, head dresses, bone jewelry, wood carvings, and leather items. His remarkable skills were shared with countless elementary-aged children as he, along with his cousins Robert and Darryl, visited local schools to impart stories, history, art, and, of course, music.

An ardent Harley rider, Kurt reveled in the freedom of the open road. He and Shirley embarked on countless journeys together, riding various bikes and participating in various charitable causes until her passing in 2021. Kurt's final ride came at the age of 93 when he sold his last bike, marking the end of a chapter filled with exhilarating adventures.

Kurt Foreman was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley, his mother, Bertha, his father, Charley, and his brothers Kenneth, Bud, and Charles. He is survived by his daughter, Pam White and her husband Chris of Joplin, his son, Steve Foreman of Springfield, his granddaughters, Lauren Edwards and her husband Chris, of Republic, Allison White of Joplin, his great-grandson, Milo, of Republic and Tom “Thompson” Monolidis, close and dear family friend.

Kurt Foreman will forever be remembered for his unwavering faith, musical talents, artistic endeavors, and adventurous spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, creativity, and devotion that will continue to inspire and touch the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family would like to give a big thanks to the staff at Compassus Hospice Care and Charlotte's Angels. Their wonderful care has been invaluable during this time.

A graveside service will be held at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 25, 2023. The family would like to invite friends to join a procession to the graveside service, leaving Mason-Woodard Mortuary at 9:40 a.m. on Friday. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening at Mason-Woodard Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Joplin Humane Society in his honor in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.