Kurt Pfotenhauer, executive vice president and vice chairman of First American Title Insurance Company, has passed away according to a release from the firm.
“Everyone within the First American family of companies mourns the passing of Kurt Pfotenhauer,” said Mark Seaton, CEO, First American Financial Corporation in a statement. “Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Nancy, children, and grandchildren. Kurt was a distinguished leader in our industry and a valued member of the First American team."
In his role with First American, Pfotenhauer fostered executive level relationships with the company’s largest customers, the U.S. Congress, the executive branch, and state regulators. He was also responsible for the corporation’s marketing and communications functions.
“Kurt dedicated many years to advancing the title and mortgage industries, serving in key roles that shaped policy and created lasting relationships,” added Seaton. “His extensive experience and unwavering commitment to excellence helped position First American as a respected leader in the industry. Kurt’s influence extended far beyond the company, as he was a guiding force in various industry organizations, including the American Land Title Association (ALTA), the Housing Policy Council (HPC), and the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA).”
Prior to joining First American in 2011, Pfotenhauer served as chief executive officer of ALTA, a national trade association for the abstract and title insurance industry from 2007–2011.
Prior to joining ALTA, he served as senior vice president of government affairs for the MBA, where he was twice named one of Washington, D.C.’s top lobbyists.
He previously served as chief of staff for Sen. Gordon Smith (R-OR) and Rep. Denny Smith (R-OR).
Before entering the industry, he served in the private sector as vice president of public affairs for United Parcel Service (UPS).
“Kurt will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for the kindness and integrity he showed to everyone he encountered,” noted Seaton. “His ability to connect with people and uplift those around him is a testament to who he was and the profound impact he made on so many. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”
Outside the office, Pfotenhauer was known for volunteering his time to a number of charities and foundations.
In addition to having served on the boards of directors for the MBA, ICE Mortgage Services, MBA's Open Doors Foundation, and the Housing Policy Council's executive committee, he previously chaired the board of directors of MERS Corp, is a past chair of the MBA’s political action committee (MORPAC), and was past chairman of the board for MISMO.
Seaton added, “Kurt’s greatest joy came from his faith and family. He often spoke of the love and pride he felt for his family, and this deep commitment was evident in all aspects of his life.”
