Kurt R. Chalgren, Jr.
February 17, 1942 -
March 22, 2019
Loving husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated choral director, Kurt R. Chalgren, Jr., age 77, died on Friday, March 22, 2019 at Froedert South - St. Catherine’s Campus.
Born in Fort Dodge, IA on February 17, 1942, he was the son of the late Kurt R. and Irene (née: Reisner) Chalgren, Sr. He was a graduate of Clinton High School, Clinton, IA, the University of Northern Iowa, and Illinois State University where he received his Master’s Degree in Music.
On August 27, 1966 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Fort Dodge, IA, he was united in marriage to Barbara L. Brand.
As the choral director at Tremper for 36 years, Kurt was an influential teacher, mentor, and musician. While at Tremper, he created, directed, and produced “The Choraliers” show choir and “Ye Olde Englishe Christmasse Feaste”, currently in its 44th year. He was the former director of the Wisconsin Singers at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Kurt served as vocal director for the KIDS FROM WISCONSIN from their inception in 1969 through 2004.
Kurt frequently served as guest director, clinician, and adjudicator throughout the country.
Kurt was honored as Kenosha’s “Person of the Year” in 1992. He also received the Elks Club “Americanism Award”, Jaycees “Outstanding Educator of the Year”, and a mayoral proclamation of “Kurt Chalgren Day” in Kenosha.
Kurt was a member of St. Mary’s Lutheran Church in Kenosha and Peace Lutheran Church in Ft. Meyers, FL. For several years, he enjoyed singing in the choirs.
Kurt was extremely proud of his 4 grandsons and took every opportunity to attend their programs, concerts, and sporting events. His love and pride in them was evident.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara; his two children, Kirstin (Rob) Glinski and Derek (Vanessa Chambers) Chalgren; his four grandchildren, Nathan and Jacob Glinski, Quentin Gitzlaff and Austin Chalgren; and his two brothers-in-law, Greg (Sandra) Brand and Mike (Deb) Brand.
Funeral services honoring Kurt will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2019 at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church, 2001 80th St.
The family would like to extend special thanks to his doctors and the nursing staff at Froedert South for their compassionate care.
Service Info
Funeral Services honoring Kurt will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church, 2001 80th St.
Posted by:
Jerelynn MasonI’ve just become aware of Mr. Chalgren’s passing. I was a student of his at Tremper in 1968-1970 in a choir called Varsity Choir. We were kids who weren’t good enough for the other choirs and apparently other kids made fun of us because of it. One day he gathered all the choirs together and gave everyone a strong lecture on kindness and the spirit of music. His words still resonant with me, as I learned from him that it’s not how perfectly a person plays or sings but how much fun and spirit they bring to it that matters. Great lesson, great man. Condolences to his family.
Posted by:
JOHN ZAHNIt has been my distinct pleasure and honor to have known and befriended Kurt. He always had a smile on his face and had a contagious positive attitude. I have enjoyed the time we spent together at Tremper. He will be missed.
Posted by:
Cindy Owens WheelerI was very sad to hear of Mr. C’s passing. When I moved from Pennsylvania going into my sophomore year, I was extremely lucky to be a part of his choirs my last 3 years of high school. His guidance was instrumental in making my family’s move a positive experience for me and, coming from a family who loves music, his choirs meant everything. He taught me so much about music...and working hard. The Choraliers and performances like Handel’s Messiah are among my many treasured memories, as are those of my friendship with both Kurt and you, Barb. Please accept my sincere condolences to you and all your family.
Posted by:
Pamela DeVuystI was very sadden to hear his passing. Mr. Chalgren was so amazing. He was just like a father to so many. He was the one who kept me in wanting to sing in front of so many people. I now have sung at church when we had the choir, and I sang at the Milwaukee Bucks. I will miss him deeply
Posted by:
Kay KrauseAs a staff member at Tremper High School with Kurt, I am saddened to learn of his passing. Barb, may you find the strength you need to see you through this difficult time.
Posted by:
Roger Reisner and Genny ReisnerWe would like to express our heartfelt condolences to family and relatives of Kurt. We attended most of Kurt's performances when he was in college and when he student taught in Fort Dodge. He was a great musician. we have a son Chad whose birthday is on Feb.18,1976. Kurt came to visit us in Lincoln Ne when Chad was a year old. I have a picture of the two of them with Mr.Potato Head pipes and other Potato Head parts as they had a good time together. I don't remember the reason he was in Lincoln or if he was just passing through. We know this is a difficult time for all of you and hope your faith will help you through.
Posted by:
Kris, a Class of '73 Bradford choir kid.Mr. Chalgren always gave Bradford Choir kids and our choir director Roger Tweiten a challenge to try new kinds of music and to challenge ourselves in our performances. Bradford and Tremper always had a healthy competition. His work with the Kids from Wisconsin and the Madrigals Englische Feaste along with so many other areas of music was an inspiration to anyone who loved music and participated in musical groups. He was a huge part of the music program in Kenosha Unified Schools. With respect and thanks from all the Bradford choir kids who had the chance to work with him.
Posted by:
Scott McDonaldDear Kirstin and Family, We are so sorry for the loss of your father. Please know we have been thinking of you all, and pray that the heartache you feel is dampened by joyful memories, the love of family and friends, and the peace that surpasses all understanding. Much love, Scott, Sara, Clara and Annelise
