Kurt Oren Smallcomb

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kurt Oren Smallcomb, a devoted husband, father, son, and friend. Kurt unexpectedly left us on February 4th, 2025 at the age of 62. Kurt touched the lives of everyone he met with his generous spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family and friends. 

Kurt was born on March 22, 1962, in Beloit, Kansas to Darol and Glenda Smallcomb. The Smallcomb family moved to Santa Rosa, California shortly after Kurt’s birth. Kurt attended Bennett Valley Elementary School and Montgomery High School in Santa Rosa. He developed lifelong friendships while attending Montgomery. Kurt played baseball and had awards named after him to honor his work ethic, hustle, and drive. Kurt was the ultimate teammate and served as a shining example of compassion and kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand to those around him. 

Kurt met the love of his life Kristi while they were attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Kurt and Kristi were married on May 30th, 1981. As a husband, Kurt prioritized love and support, laying a foundation of strength and joy in his marriage. Together, they created a beautiful family anchored in mutual respect, understanding, and laughter. As a dedicated father, Kurt embraced the joy of guiding his children, Kayle and Kami, in their dreams and aspirations teaching them the values of kindness, resilience, and the importance of following their ambitions.

 Kurt was a beloved son, deeply cherished by his parents. Kurt had a special bond with his family, bringing warmth and connection to every gathering. His friendships transcended mere acquaintanceship, those who knew him experienced his love, unwavering loyalty, and zest for life. 

Kurt had a love and sincere passion for public service. He was a retired Captain from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office where he served the County for over 30 years. He volunteered with Special Olympics where he helped countless special-needs youth and adults enjoy sports and dances. Kurt volunteered for the City of Ukiah youth sports programs for almost 40 years. He was not only a coach and mentor to the youth of this area, but a friend and surrogate father to many. He was one of the most selfless people to ever walk this Earth and he absolutely loved public service. 

Kurt absolutely loved sports. He loved watching, playing, and coaching all sports with the exception of soccer (many of you know why). He instilled his love of sports to his daughter Kayle, son-in-law Quincy Cromer, and granddaughter Kyla. He was extremely proud of and deeply loved coaching and mentoring his granddaughter (and bragging about her accomplishments). 

To say Kurt was the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend would be the biggest understatement. Those who were lucky enough to truly know Kurt considered him the best person they had ever met and a hero to many. Kurt is who we should all aspire to be. The world would be a utopian society if we all were more like Kurt Smallcomb. 

While his physical presence may be gone, Kurt’s spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. 

Kurt will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. His light will continue to shine through the lives of the many he impacted, reminding us all to cherish each moment and love one another fiercely. 

Kurt was preceded in death by his beloved father Darol and father-in-law Maynard Thomas. He leaves behind the love of his life, best friend, partner, and heart Kristi, his daughters Kayle and Kami, his son-in-law (son) Quincy Cromer, his absolute pride and joy granddaughter Kyla Cromer, his “surrogate” eldest daughter Megan Turner Brown, his mother Glenda Smallcomb, brother Kevin Smallcomb, sister-in-law Julie Smallcomb, nieces Katie and Kyndle Smallcomb, great niece Klary, brother Greg Smallcomb and his nephews Deron, Nate, and Dylan Smallcomb (and their families). Kurt also leaves behind numerous aunts, cousins, and other “adopted” or “surrogate” family members, too numerous to list.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 15th, 2025 at 2 P.M. at Eversole Mortuary in Ukiah, CA. A celebration of life will be held the same day at 4 P.M. at the Ukiah Valley Conference Center. The family requests that anyone who wishes to honor Kurt in this time of sadness, please volunteer or complete a selfless act of kindness.