Harry G Kortrey

Harry G. Kortrey, age 79, died peacefully at his home at the Renaissance in Manchester on October 22, 2020. Harry was born in Hoboken, NJ to Anna and Harry W. Kortrey. He graduated at age 16 from Memorial High School in West New York, NJ. Harry participated in ROTC and earned a BA in psychology from Rutgers University. He served as 1st Lt. in the 3rd Infantry Division of the US Army military police. He married Blanche Wilson in 1962. They enjoyed traveling through Europe while stationed in Wurzburg, Germany. When he returned to the states with his wife and baby, Harry began working for A-P-A Transport Corp, and after 40 years, he retired from linehaul management. Faith in Christ and love of family were central to his life. Harry and Blanche raised their six children in Bogota. Harry loved weekly Sunday dinners and holidays with extended family, eating Italian meals that ended with his mother’s homemade apple pie. For many years, Blanche and Harry hosted Monday night dinners with their parents, kids, grandchildren and any friends who showed up. He had a kind and generous spirit, always willing to help family whether moving furniture, babysitting grandchildren, or caring for his elderly parents and in-laws. First up in the morning, he could be found at the dining room table, reading his Bible and praying for his family. His faith was lived out through word and deed. He served as deacon at Grantwood Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Hackensack, and most recently at Faith Baptist Church. Over the years, he taught Sunday School, led Bible studies, volunteered in Awana children’s ministry, served on the church board, and ministered in nursing homes. Harry led an active lifestyle, enjoying daily workouts, playing tennis, swimming, and riding his bike. In retirement, he and Blanche enjoyed traveling, taking cruises, returning to Europe, and visiting their children and grandchildren. Though a quiet man, Harry always had thoughtful insights and a wonderful sense of humor. His warm smile and deep booming laugh were a joy that will be missed. Harry is survived by his wife of 58 years, Blanche Kortrey; son, Douglas & wife Mary Kortrey (Mac, Rose, Lillie, Danny); daughters: Bonnie Kortrey & Ted Schaffer (Kira and Camryn), Nancy & Larry Rosenberger (Rachel, Matthew, Luke), Kerry & Darin Armour (Hamilton, Ashlynn, Annalee, Harrison) Pamela Kortrey & Greg Hohman (Elliot, Lydia Grace, Graham, and Clark), and Susan Kortrey & Jim Felty (Jake, Abbey, and Katelyn); Hoodie (Zento) sisters: Brenda & Ted Edwards, and Donna & Henry Zulauf, sisters-in-law: Dale Wilson, and Carol Tripp, nieces and nephews. Visitation is October 27, 2020 from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00pm, at Oliverie Funeral Home, 2925 Ridgeway Rd., Manchester. Funeral Service is Wednesday, October 28 at Faith Baptist Church, Toms River, 11:00am, with interment to follow to George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus. Donations can be made to: America’s Keswick, American Cancer Society, or Faith Baptist Church, Toms River.

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