YURT, Joseph R., 65, of Louisville, passed away Sunday, October 7, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. Words cannot express the loss this world has experienced. He was a kind and gentle spirit who loved all things nature. Joe was a graduate of the University of Louisville whose thirst for knowledge never ceased. He spent the later years of his life writing children’s books and educating children through his work with Children’s Nature Guide. Joe could often be found at Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve and Bernheim Forest, sharing his love of nature with the kids, or selling his books at Douglass Loop Farmer’s Market. He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Yurt; daughter, Jennifer Valsted (Michael); step-daughters, Shelly Schultz (Steven), Faith Chapman (Shane) & Jennifer Boahn; brothers, Bob Sinclair (Holly) & David Sinclair; and grandchildren, Patrick, Ryan & Emma Valsted, Kayla, Kendall & Grant Chapman, and Ariana Arroyo. Joe’s memorial visitation will be from 4-8 p.m., on Wednesday, October 10 at Highlands Funeral Home, 3331 Taylorsville Road. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve Home or to the American Liver Foundation.

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