Charles "Chip" Kurutza was born in New Jersey.  He was raised in Linden, NJ, and attended school there. He was an active Cub and Boy Scout he loved the outdoors, especially camping and freshwater fishing. He spent 22 years in the restaurant business as manager and general manager of various restaurants. In 2010, he relocated to Arizona and made the decision to go into real estate with his friend and partner, Gaylene Tucker; they worked under Valley Executives as TK Realtors. He is survived by his mother, Dianne; his stepdad, David; his Aunt, Jean; and Uncle Bill and Aunt Pattie and cousins and dear friends.