Jordan passed away on September 21, 2025, in Tucson, Ariz. He was born in Burlington, Vt., on February 16, 1992, where he lived until moving with his family to Tucson in 2003. Jordan graduated from Canyon del Oro High School in Tucson and then attended Denison University in Granville, Ohio.
Jordan worked in administration and sales at several established companies and in startups. He also worked regularly in hospitality, starting at age 14 in the kitchen of a gelato shop and most recently as a bartender.
From a young age, Jordan was kind, affectionate, funny and loyal. He enthusiastically affirmed and celebrated his family and friends. His warmth, curiosity and quick wit served him well, both personally and professionally.
Jordan’s absence from our lives will be an ongoing sorrow, but memories of his universal empathy, offbeat humor and clever commentary will continue to make us smile and keep his spirit alive.
Jordan is survived by his mother, Michelle Mraz (Rob Backus) of Burlington; his father, Mitchell H. Kurker (Juanita) of Tucson; his brother; his grandmother, Frances Kurker, of Tucson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. A memorial service in Burlington will be announced at a later date.
If you would like to make a contribution in Jordan’s memory, please consider your local library, center for the arts or agency for mental health services.
Read Jordan’s complete obituary here: https://www.avenidascremation.com/obituaries?query=jordan+kurker-mraz .
We are grateful to those who have expressed their sympathy and provided comfort and support since his passing. Thank you.
(Photo taken by Jordan, April 2022. If you look closely at the signs, you will see a message that is helpful to those who are grieving him.)
I am so saddened whenever I hear of a person that feels so hopeless and alone that they cannot go on living– this young man was obviously loved. I wish him peace, and I hope for comfort for all those who loved him.