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JNeal Inner circle I used to have 999 posts, now I have 1623 Posts |
The family released this statement:
"Robert J. Gurtler On October 17th, 2022 Robert J. Gurtler passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long and valiant battle with Alzheimer’s. A native of Mesa Arizona, he had just recently turned 86. Professionally known as André Kole, he became world renowned as not only a performer, but one of the foremost creators of magical effects. His genius was utilized by stage and television stars David Copperfield, Siegfried & Roy, Doug Henning, as well as countless other magicians throughout the world. At seven years old one of his fathers business associates showed the young Bob Gurtler a coin trick, which sparked his interest. By fourteen he created The Gurtler Magic Company. The pivotal moment of his life came when at twenty five he was challenged to investigate the miracles of Christ from the point of view of an illusionist. This led to the next fifty plus years touring his show, ‘André Kole’s World of Illusion’ in all fifty states as well as eighty countries under the banner of Campus Crusade for Christ International. He not only presented a full evening magic and illusion show, but audiences were given the opportunity (if they wished) to hear and witness through a unique presentation, why he believed Jesus Christ was exactly who he claimed to be. Robert (André) shared the Gospel with an estimated ten million people in live performances, with approximately a million of those indicating their choice to follow Christ via comment cards. There is currently a full length documentary and a limited docu-series being produced with Robert (André) as the central character focussing on another aspect of his career, investigating and debunking supernatural phenomena and paranormal activity. Robert is survived by his wife Kathryne, daughters Robyn and Stacey, his son Tim, and his grandchildren Dustin, Dillon, Colin, Camden, and Skyler. As well as his brother Dr. Richard Gurtler and his family. Loved by thousands around the world, Robert will always be remembered as the Magic Warrior for Christ." For those of us who saw him work... or shared his friendship... he will be very much missed.... Click here to view attached image.
visit me @ JNealShow.com
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Ron Reid Inner circle Phoenix, Arizona 2733 Posts |
Thanks, JNeal. I live not too far away from him, and have been wondering about Andre and his whereabouts...
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Wravyn Inner circle 3513 Posts |
My condolences and prayers for his family and loved ones.
I remember going to one of his shows in the mid '90s. What a great experience that was. I enjoyed his show more than I did David Copperfield 's. |
Levi Bennett Inner circle 1778 Posts |
What a great testimony and life story. I look forward to meeting him.
https://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=0E0BM1NU
Performing magic unprofessionally since 2008!
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The great Gumbini Inner circle 3062 Posts |
What a great testimony there on GodTube! I wish everyone would understand what he was saying in that testimony and would at least give Jesus a chance! It would be so wonderful. And I know Mr Andre Kole is so happy now and very grateful he made the right choice! Can't wait to see him up there.
Good magic to all, Eric |
Chessmann Inner circle 4247 Posts |
Amen, Eric.
My ex-cat was named "Muffin". "Vomit" would be a better name for her. AKA "The Evil Ball of Fur".
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trey Loyal user 291 Posts |
I briefly got to meet him in the lobby of a David Copperfield show back in the 90s. He seemed to be pretty stoked that a couple of youngsters knew who he was. I was like "Of course we know who you are, you're The Great Andre Kole!"
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Greg Arce Inner circle 6732 Posts |
Wow, somehow I missed this. I saw his illusion twice when he came to South Florida. He did some stuff that completely baffled me. And not just the big illusions. He did some stuff that was smaller - like you would see in a parlor show - and that completely baffled me, too.
He was a great entertainer. And, if I remember correctly, he always had a small sermon as part of his show, but he would first tell the audience if they didn't want to hear it they could step out until he was done so it wasn't forced on you. Great magician and creator... he will be missed in this community. Greg
One of my favorite quotes: "A critic is a legless man who teaches running."
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The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » Did you hear the latest? » » Andre Kole (Robert J. Gurtler) has passed on.... (6 Likes) |
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