Kurt

Kurt is a character from the Pokémon anime, specifically appearing in the Johto region episodes (around episodes 142–143 of the original series, "A Shadow of a Drought" and "Going Apricorn!").

He is an elderly Poké Ball craftsman and expert who lives in Azalea Town with his young granddaughter Maizie (and her Slowpoke). Kurt is renowned for creating special Apricorn Balls — unique Poké Balls handmade from different varieties of Apricorns, each with special properties (like Fast Balls for speedy Pokémon).

In the anime, he's portrayed as a gruff, no-nonsense, and straightforward older man who is deeply protective of Pokémon. He once injured his back chasing a Team Rocket grunt in defense of Slowpoke. He's a friend of Professor Oak, who sends Ash to deliver the mysterious GS Ball to him for study (as Kurt is knowledgeable about rare Poké Balls). Despite his tough demeanor, he shows gratitude and generosity, such as giving Ash and friends some special balls as thanks for their help.

His appearances are limited to those early Johto episodes, where he helps advance the (ultimately dropped) GS Ball storyline and teaches about Apricorn Poké Balls.