1964-2026
Kurt G. Finney, 61, of McPherson, KS, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at his home in rural McPherson.
Kurt was born June 17, 1964, in McPherson, KS, the son of Garron Dwight and Carlene Jo “Carly” (Harold) Finney. He graduated from Topeka West High School. In 1995, Kurt married Kristi Schmidt in McPherson. This union was blessed with four children, Kogan, Ashley, Allison, and Kyne.
Kurt was truly one of a kind — a jack of all trades with a fiercely independent spirit. He drove school bus routes for USD 400 and USD 418. Throughout his years, he enjoyed disc golf, both competitively and recreationally, taking home hardware in multiple tournaments. But the real love for the sport came from the camaraderie of playing with his friends and family. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in rock climbing, hunting, fishing, waterskiing, camping, and riding his motorcycle. The outdoors wasn’t just a pastime for him — it was a way of life.
Kurt was a homesteader at heart. From gardening and canning vegetables to raising and butchering his own meat, he believed in self-sufficiency. Years ago, he opened his farm to host large gatherings, welcoming friends and family. He had a deep love for animals, especially his dogs, and even the local wildlife knew they could count on him for a handout.
If there was something Kurt didn’t know how to do, he simply learned it. Armed with books and determination, there was no project he wouldn’t tackle himself. He enjoyed strategy games like craps and was known for speaking in riddles, often leaving his children to puzzle over his cryptic messages. Ornery by nature, he never hesitated to share his “words of wisdom.” Strong-willed and thoughtful, he stood firm in his beliefs and lived life on his own terms.
Kurt’s legacy is one of independence, curiosity, grit, and heart. He will be remembered for his stories, his stubborn streak, and the many lives he touched along the way.
He is survived by four children, Kogan Finney of McPherson, KS, Ashely Burch (Kordell) of Lindsborg, KS, Allison Finney of Grand Rivers, KY, and Kyne Finney of McPherson, KS; four grandchildren, Riata, Briar, Sampson, and Kaulder; one sister, Gara Anthony (Mike) of Kingwood, TX; and many extended relatives.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be payable to Ashley Burch to help with final expenses in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.
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