OBITUARY
Kurt Andre Wimmer
March 21, 1959 – April 4, 2021
Kurt André Wimmer, 62, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021. Kurt was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, where he graduated from East High School in 1977. He attended Wichita State University and the University of Missouri, graduating with a degree in journalism in 1982. Kurt also attained a J.D. and a Masters in Communication from Syracuse University in 1985. He went on to have a successful career as an international leader in intellectual property, cybersecurity, and media law during a career at Covington & Burling that spanned more than three decades. He worked in the London office for three years, lived in Washington D.C. for thirty years and had clients from Silicon Valley to Shenzhen, China. Kurt was incredibly humble, a gifted writer, mentor and speaker, and worked pro bono for many philanthropic causes that he supported. He played a leading role in the firm’s work for the International Paralympic Committee and was an ardent supporter of athletes with disabilities. Kurt served on several boards and received many awards including the Sprague Award. Kurt was an active parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Georgetown of Washington, D.C. He was an avid photographer and traveler, loved music and attending concerts as well as sporting events (esp. the KC Chiefs), and was a wine connoisseur. He is loved and remembered for his genuine kindness and thoughtfulness. He gave tirelessly of himself to the causes and people he loved. Kurt was a dedicated Father and husband who treasured his family, embracing every moment with them. His family was the central part of his life and they always came first. Kurt and Stephanie were high school sweethearts and dated for eight years before marrying August 4, 1984. Perpetually dedicated to each other, they considered themselves soul mates who had each found the love of their life. Kurt is survived by his wife Stephanie, who also grew up in Wichita, Kansas, as well as his sons Max and Nick and daughter Gracie, who were his pride, inspiration and joy. He is also survived by his brother Chris, sister Heidi, niece Addison and nephew Braylen, along with many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anne Marie “Yve” and Marion Wimmer, brother Steve, and father-in-law Thomas Weathersby.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Kurt’s name by 826DC. To make a donation, click the 826DC link below.
A private service was held in Washington D.C. and a memorial at a later date in Wichita, Kansas. The recorded video can be viewed by clicking the "view video" in the services box below.
PALLBEARERS
- Michael Argabright
- Scott Burgess
- David Fagan
- John Gamino
- Ray Gamino
- Jim Garland
- Chris Wimmer
- James Rhoa
DONATIONS
- 826DC
Services
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Private Funeral Mass (Live Stream)
Saturday, April 10, 2021
Memories
Kurt Andre Wimmer
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYRenagh Christopher
April 17, 2021
I would like to offer my condolences to the Wimmer family and Kurt's friends. I advised Kurt on public relations when he was Managing Partner of the London office from 2000 - 2003. His vision for Covington's London office was to "do good and be good", which he personally lived up to, and worked very hard at.
It would have been so much easier for Kurt and the Wimmer family, if he had just focused on generating profits. Instead, Kurt integrated into his many, heavy responsibilities an extraordinary amount of high quality, pro bono work. I believe he remains the only lawyer to win the coveted Joseph A. Sprague award (2002). It is notable that amongst the London office's first awards were awards for pro bono work (2004) and pioneering anti-piracy work (2005).
At this time of international pandemic and environmental challenge, we really need the collaborative mindset and long lens perspective of people like Kurt. His early passing is truly a blow.
I have never, happily, worked so hard in my life. Thank you to the Wimmer family for allowing Kurt to be such a great influence. Thank you Mr. "Do good and be good" for being a wonderful friend and colleague.
Ljiljana Smajlovic
April 15, 2021
I am one of many people from afar whose life Kurt has touched, and made better, with his kindness and legal expertise. He was generous with both. In 1998, he provided Serbian journalists with a devastating pro bono critique of a Milosevic-era Draconian media law, which we took to the court of public opinion, and won. Ten years later, with Milosevic gone, he again took up our cause, this time against a government compliant with the US Embassy in Belgrade, but democratic in name only. And his arguments prevailed, again. I recognize him in the tributes his friends, family and associates leave here, and I salute his accomplishments and his personality.
Scott Krokoff
April 11, 2021
I wish to express my sincerest condolences to Kurt's family and loved ones. I often sought his guidance from a professional and business standpoint (which is how my relationship with him started, as I'm sure is the case with many others) and in time he became a good friend of mine. He was a great man (not to mention, an excellent attorney) - and I haven't forgotten the kind words he said to me after my dad passed early last year. Needless to say, he passed away way too young and I was shocked by the news of his passing and remain saddened by it. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Mary and Jack Cleland
April 11, 2021
Dearest Steph, Max, Nick , and Grace,
Jack and I and kids send our love and deep condolences. We remember fondly the good family times together in London and DC. .....even Kurt carving a turkey one Thanksgiving at your beautiful home. Kurt, your husband and dad, was such a fine man. It is sad that the world lost such a man so soon. We’re thinking about and praying for you.
Mary and Jack Cleland, Maddie and Patrick
Sarah Wilson
April 10, 2021
Kurt was one of the first lawyers I met when I joined Covington. His office at 1201 Penn was adorned with beautiful photos, modern furniture (different then), and calm lighting. He wore funky glasses and exuded a spiritual warmth and grounded quality that one felt before he said a word. He was an active listener and creative thinker. I deeply admired his ability to shape a unique legal practice. He attended a firm diversity event several years ago with his daughter and I remember the palpable pride and joy on his face when he introduced her. Just a few weeks ago he moderated a fascinating discussion on a trending area of law at the firm's Monday Luncheon Program. Such a profound loss. With deep condolences to his family and gratitude for Kurt's lasting impact on our law firm community. Sarah Wilson
Stephanie Herndon
April 10, 2021
For the past 10 years I have been Kurt’s secretary/assistant at Covington. By far Kurt is the kindest, most genuine, and caring person that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. He never hesitated to show that not only were we co-workers, but that we were also friends. I will and already do miss Kurt tremendously . Continued prayers for Steph and the family. 🙏🏽
Maurita Coley
April 10, 2021
Dearest Family and Friends of Kurt Wimmer...on behalf of Kurt’s Multicultural Media, Telecom and Internet (MMTC) family and its co-founder David Honig, we are deeply saddened by the unexpected news of Kurt’s passing. He has been an extraordinary friend, advisor, and pro bono advocate to MMTC for many many years. Words cannot express our grief, we can only say the Ancestors have gained a good and faithful servant. We are honored to have known him and to call ourselves a friend of Kurt.
Michelle Choe
April 10, 2021
My sincerest condolences to Kurt’s family. I was fortunate to have had an opportunity to work with Kurt at Covington, and I will always remember his kindness and supportiveness. He will be sorely missed.
laura handman
April 10, 2021
A warm and loving tribute to Kurt, that captured his generous spirit that we, his colleagues in the media bar together fighting for the First Amendment rights of our clients, knew so well. He will be so very much missed,
Laura Handman
Jo Ann Andrews
April 10, 2021
I worked for Mr. Wimmer when he first came to C&B. He was a very kind and caring person to work for and with. Even after he went to London and then came back to DC, he never failed to stop and speak when we met in the hall. My prayers to your family .
Derek Ludwin
April 10, 2021
Kurt was everything you could want in a colleague and a friend. Like many, some of my favorite memories of Kurt involved a concert, but he was equally good company in a team meeting. Kurt was inevitably kind and generous, and his warmth and humor always just made me feel good. He gave freely of his time and energy, and cared more about the success and well-being of those around him than his own. I will sorely miss him, and his memory will be for a blessing.
Gian Deguzman
April 10, 2021
My deepest condolences to the Wimmer Family. I am sorry for your loss and may you find comfort in each other at this time.
Jason Criss
April 10, 2021
For nearly two decades, Kurt was a kind and generous mentor and colleague. From the first day we worked together, he treated me as a peer, even though I was a junior associate and he was a partner with a preeminent professional reputation. I treasure the memories of the lunches and conversations we shared, and I will carry the lessons Kurt taught me for the rest of my professional career, and my life.
Michael Labson
April 10, 2021
Rest in peace, Kurt. You will be sorely missed. You were such an important part of the firm and wonderful colleague. Of course as a lawyer, but more importantly for me I will miss your kindness and warmth. I will keep listening to the bands I learned about from your posts and think of you!
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May your memory be a blessing.
Your friend, Mike
Catherine Dargan
April 10, 2021
I was devastated to hear of Kurt's passing. Kurt and Jon Blake gave me my first assignment as a new associate at Covington over 25 years ago. Kurt was an amazing teacher, mentor, colleague and friend. He always gave good advice (about work and life)! And he always made time for me even after our practices diverged and I worked with him less frequently. Kurt was a wonderful, brilliant, compassionate person, and he will be sorely, sorely missed. We have lost a giant. Sending our love to Stephanie and the kids.
Lesa Pierce
April 9, 2021
I dont usually find myself speechless. But all I can think is he was the rock, and the glue for his soul mate wife and his sister, the best friend to his children. Why does God pull the rock out from under our feet? I weep for your loss and pain. But I do know his spirit is still with you. Sending you all love. 🌹
Jennifer Johnson
April 9, 2021
Kurt was a mentor to me when I was an associate and then was my law partner for many, many years. During some of my most challenging times, I found myself in Kurt’s office for his wise words, solidarity and comfort. He was a wonderful person who was dedicated to his family, his colleagues, his community, and the greater good. The outpouring of love and grief from clients, colleagues, former colleagues and the broader community about Kurt’s passing has been a testament to the impact he had on the people he touched. He will be deeply missed.
Keir Gumbs
April 9, 2021
I am deeply saddened to learn the news about Kurt’s passing. Kurt was a wonderful human being and a kind colleague. I had the fortune of having an office next to Kurt when I joined Covington and Burling in 2005. Notwithstanding how junior of a lawyer I was, as well as a newbie to law firm life, Kurt was a tremendously warm and welcoming neighbor. I will always remember fondly the chats we had in the office as he described the interesting work that he did, the clients he had and most importantly his family. He will leave a legacy of kindness, thoughtfulness and incredible talent.
Kim (Dykhuizen) Zimmerman
April 9, 2021
Stephanie, I am so saddened by your loss of Kurt. He genuinely had a heart of gold and he lived his life admirably. He truly will be missed. I watched the movie that was put together so well and you can see all the love he had for his family. The pics of the two of you were just precious. You two really were soulmates. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers in hopes you will find peace and comfort as you go through this very difficult time. Rest peacefully, Kurt.
Lincoln Bandlow
April 9, 2021
I am so saddened by Kurt's passing. I was fortunate to get to know Kurt over the years at various media law conferences. Shared a few drinks with Kurt in London, New York, Virginia and other cities frequented by the First Amendment / Media bar and loved talking to him about the law, politics and life. He was always an absolute gentleman who spoke brilliantly but also listened intently and openly. The media bar is lucky because we are all typically more than colleagues, but good friends. Kurt was one of those good friends. He will be missed and remembered extremely fondly. May he rest in peace and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
Barbara Cavener
April 9, 2021
Most of my memories of Kurt are from our childhood years in Wichita. Even then he demonstrated those attributes so fondly described by others...always kind and caring. What cherished memories of Countryside Plaza with Kurt and the Wimmer family. To Stephanie and the entire family - my sincerest sympathies. Kurt was such an amazing person and will be dearly missed.
Barbara Rhoa Cavener
Cyndi Quintana
April 9, 2021
Stephanie, Max, Nick and Gracie, I'm absolutely heartbroken at the loss of Kurt. He was an amazing human being that tirelessly gave of himself. He was one of the most intelligent and humble people I've ever met. I'm blessed and honor to call him family! He will forever be in our hearts and souls and he will always be with you. May God comfort you and bring you peace. May his beautiful soul rest in peace.
Love to you all,
Cyndi
Beth Quintana - Dickerson
April 9, 2021
Kurt was one of the good guys.
A true OG. Mischievous yet quiet. So many memories... reunions, weddings, birthdays, funerals, graduations, 1st Communions, baby showers, sharing his latest great musical find, his award winning pictures and video of almost every family event...
Kurt was always there.
I wore Stephanie’s wedding dress when I walked down the aisle. Kurt gave the most touching speech at my wedding reception all the while beaming with joy remembering his bride who he kept close to his heart. Kurt and Stephanie, greeted me with open arms in London days after 9/11 when I was in working in Frankfort Germany. All I knew is if I could just get to London, to them, we would all take care of each other.
Kurt was a beacon of comfort, always had a smile, a genuine smile, when he talked about his family, his passions, his work, his politics, and the people he loved most in the world his Stephanie, Max, Nick, and his sweet Gracie.
I, we ...the family, are devastated.
He will be deeply missed.
Eternal rest grant unto them,
O Lord, and let perpetual light
shine upon them. May the souls
of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God,
rest in peace.
Emily Hancock
April 9, 2021
There are no words to ease the pain of losing a beloved husband and father so young. My deepest condolences to Kurt's family. I first met Kurt as a young associate at Covington and then later worked with him when I went in-house. He was a wonderful mentor and advisor. He was always so welcoming, kind and thoughtful. When he talked to you, you knew he was focused on you and really listening. I'm shocked and saddened by his passing, and my heart aches for the grief I know his family is feeling. Kurt was an amazing person and will be so deeply missed.
Lori Calovich Bramhall
April 9, 2021
I grew up with the Wimmer family on Countryside in Wichita, KS. Kurt was alway big brother and kind to everyone. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
Janet W. Isa
April 8, 2021
Kurt was a man of warmth, integrity and humor. I loved spending time with Stephanie and Kurt and family and will never forget our March for Women's Rights. We shared times in London and DC and he always made me laugh when we discussed our common politics. I especially loved how he treated his wife with love and dignity, and that cup of coffee brought up to her when she was getting ready in the mornings. He was an ideal husband, father and friend. I will miss him greatly.
Paul Li
April 8, 2021
Rest in peace and God bless.
Paul Li
Georg Berrisch
April 8, 2021
Very sad and shocked to hear this. Kurt was one of the finest persons I met during my 12 years at Covington. I was so pleased when I received a Facebook friendship request from him about a week ago as I thought it would be a nice way to connect again. My sincere condolences to his family.
Elaine Clancy
April 8, 2021
We are so sorry to hear of Kurt’s passing. Our sincerest condolences to your entire family for your loss. Saying prayers for you and trusting that God will put him in a special place where he will be watching as an angel in Heaven over your family and friends.
May he rest in peace.
God bless,
Elaine & Brian Clancy
Ruben Kraiem
April 8, 2021
When I joined Covington, a little more than sixteen years ago, I felt an immediate bond of trust and fellowship with Kurt. He went out of his way to make me - and, I’m sure, many others - feel truly welcome. You knew right away with Kurt that he was not only a wonderful colleague but also a friend whose affection and care you would treasure. I hold dear the memory of having known him.
Nigel Howard
April 8, 2021
Kurt is very much missed. A huge loss and I am so sad about his passing. My sincere condolences to Kurt's wife and family. He was a very good man.
Mark Kahn
April 8, 2021
I have known Kurt for the past 10 years or so. A couple of years ago, my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. Kurt reached out to me periodically during her treatment to make sure she (and we) was doing well and to offer support. It was such a simple gesture but meant so much to me. A very kind soul.
Jetty Tielemans
April 8, 2021
Kurt was my partner at Covington for many years. Even tough we were living in different parts of the world, we spoke almost daily. The news of his sudden passing left me speechless. So unreal. I find some small solace in the fact that he passed on Easter, the day of the Resurrection. May he find and rest in peace. Dear Kurt, you will be forever missed. My thoughts go out to Stephanie and the children.
Paula Cao
April 8, 2021
As a new client, i liked Kurt very much for his professionalism, great knowledge and kindness. We had con-calls just a few months ago and no one would believe he was suffering cancer at that time. He even replied my email 2weeks ago to arrange for my request.
All my best to Kurt's family and everything he loves.
Paula
Mike and Deb Burtin
April 7, 2021
Please know our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Kurt was one of the best and will be missed by many. One of my favorite memories of Kurt was his tour of the Tower of London as he patiently showed us around and shared his knowledge of the history. Such a sweetheart. The memories of our trip to visit you all will always be instilled in my heart. So glad we we took the time to come and visit while you were abroad.
Love always,
Jellybean and Deb and kids
Debra Danis Seiden
April 7, 2021
Working at MLRC for 18 years I knew Kurt as a caring, compassionate and supportive champion of the organization, its mission and its staff. I am heartbroken to hear that he is gone and offer my sincere condolences to the whole family. I pray that you find comfort in the precious memories you share. May his memory be for a blessing.
Harold Feld
April 7, 2021
Kurt was an amazing person. When I joined Covington and Burling, he was assigned to me as my mentor. He was extremely patient, helpful and -- above else-- he really believed commitment to pro-bono and fundamental rights should be a core part of every lawyer's duty.
After I left the firm, I still stayed in touch. He was an inspiration, and his loss is a loss to the legal community and all who knew him.
May his memory always be a blessing.
Tina Quintana
April 6, 2021
Stephanie, Max, Nick, and Gracie I am so sorry for your loss of your
Husband and Father. Kurt was the most incredible Family man.
I will always remember Kurt as a loving, compassionate,
human being with a big over sized loving heart. It has been my
honor to have known him and loved him.
The David Quintana Family sends you prayers of love and comfort.
Lynn Oberlander
April 6, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Kurt's passing. I was a member of the board of the Media Law Resource Center for many years with Kurt. He was always full of wisdom and advice, but perhaps even more importantly, he was always full of good cheer. Kurt was a tremendous media lawyer, and we will all miss him. My deepest condolences.
Carol Leedy
April 6, 2021
My condolences and wishes for peace and comfort to the Wimmer family and to everyone who knew and loved Kurt. He will be missed.
Kathy Quintana
April 6, 2021
So very many great memories of Kurt. Last time I saw him at Aunt Letas 90th birthday bash. A smaller group of us went out to dinner, and Kurt reshared the memory of my dad pulling Kurt aside at their wedding, to remind him to take good care of Stephanie....or else....Kurt laughed about it then, but at the time he was just a kid and agreed. We will miss his laughter, intelligence, honor, love of family and so much more. His family has a new angel to watch over them. Vaya con Dios, Kurt.