Mr. David "Gow" Kurka of Palatine

December 23, 1923 - November 20, 2020

David Joseph Kurka,96, of Palatine, Illinois. Born December 23, 1923 passed in Hospice Care on November 20, 2020. David was the beloved husband of the late Barbara Kurka; devoted father to Susan Ross, father In law to Richard Shike; cherished grandfather better known as (Gow) to David Rawske, Dayna (Cisco) Clibourne, Brittany (Kevin) Mileski and Haley Shike; loved great grandfather of Aspen and Autumn; fond brother of Adele Kurka, Willam Kurka and the late Charles (Josanne) Kurka; beloved uncle of Beth Kurka, Daniel Kurka and Jason Kurka. David graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign with honors and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture of which became his lifelong career. David developed and designed numerous airports, invented the Jetway which leads passengers from the boarding gate to the planes. He also invented and drew the original plans to allow the planes to defrost ice. He was a longtime resident of Barrington, Illinois where he designed many homes throughout the community. The original Christmas card for the town of Barrington was painted by him and remains in the Barrington Historical Society. David was a World War 2 Veteran of which he was so proud! He served actively overseas in Germany, as an airplane mechanic and earned his pilots license at the age of 16. Many who were close to him always enjoyed hearing his war stories and experiences. David served both in the Navy and the Army and was awarded many medals and military honors. His amazing talents of paintings and wood carvings are cherished by all who are privileged to have them displayed in their homes. He was the most kind and generous man to his family. He was always willing to help anyone who needed help both family and friends. His presence on this earth will be missed by all who knew him. Prayers he has joined the love of his life Barbara, in Heaven. **Due to Covid 19 pandemic, everyone is asked to be patient and abide by the number of visitors in the funeral home. All are asked that you keep your visit short to allow others to pay their respects. Please note that all visitors are required to wear a mask when entering the funeral home** Visitation will be Thursday, December 10, 2020 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. at Morizzo Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2550 West Hassell Road, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169. Interment Memory Gardens, Arlington Heights. This Life Tributes page has been created to make it easy for Family and Friends to share memories, photos and videos. For further information please contact the Morizzo Funeral Directors at 847.752.6444. Arrangements entrusted to Morizzo Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2550 West Hassell Road, (Northeast corner at Barrington Road), Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60169.