Robert Leigh Kursten

Robert Leigh Kursten, fondly known as Robbie, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, in San Diego, California, surrounded by the love and prayers of his dear family. He was born on November 17, 1976, in Cape Town, South Africa. His spirit was boundless as the ocean he adored, enriched by a life devoted to faith, family, and adventure.

Robbie was a graduate of the University of Southern California, where he earned his MBA. He built an accomplished career as the Director of ERP of Business Systems at ViaSat Inc., dedicating the last eight years to enriching the lives of those around him through his work. Beyond professional accolades, Robbie was defined by his deep faith in Jesus, which served as the foundation of his life. Throughout his years, he actively participated in mission trips, sharing hope and compassion with countless individuals across the globe. His kindness and innate ability to make others feel valued were traits that many will carry with them forever.

In numerous conversations, whether in small groups at church or while mentoring young believers seeking a deeper understanding of faith, Robbie often shared the truths of God’s Word. His legacy is carried forward through the lives he touched and the faith he instilled in others. A celebration of Robbie’s life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. at All Peoples Church in La Mesa, California, where friends and family will come together to honor a man who inspired so many.

Robbie’s personality shined brightly in everything he did. An adventurous soul, he loved surfing, skateboarding, and the outdoors, often engaging in activities such as long beach walks with his beloved wife, Andrea, whom he affectionately referred to as his “honey.” He found joy in bike rides, exploring new foodie hotspots, and creating fun skits to entertain his sons, Noah Levi, Judah Leon, and Boaz Isaiah. Robbie had an exceptional talent for capturing memories, often seen filming their adventures together, eternally preserving the laughter and love in his family.

Through his involvement in street ministry and homeless outreach, Robbie's commitment to serving others was evident. Along with his wife, Robbie embarked on several missions trips to minister to orphanages in Mexico, ministering and sharing the gifts of love and hospitality with the less fortunate. He wholeheartedly believed in making the world a better place, and his proudest accomplishments were often tied to these selfless acts of service.

Robbie is survived by his loving mother Hilary Mary Kursten, his siblings, Karen, Michelle, David, Lindy, Robbie Paul, and Julie; and his cherished wife, Andrea, alongside their three sons, who were the light of his life. He was predeceased by his father, Norbert Felix Kursten, whose memories will remain etched in the hearts of those he left behind.

Robbie’s legacy of love and adventure will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing, and may his faith encourage us to seek the eternal hope he cherished so dearly.

The family asks in lieu of sending flowers to consider a donation to Christian Surfers international (Christiansurfers.net) or Natural High Organization (naturalhigh.org) to honor Robbie's legacy of reaching the lost and youth at risk.