Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
William Curtin Obituary
Born in Vermont, he was a multi-sport athlete who, after injury, turned to his other great passion, music. He studied under world-renowned conductor Dr. William Revelli at the University of Michigan where he was percussion section leader in both the Marching and Symphony Bands. HIs fondest memories were of playing in that symphony band that, in 1961, at the request of President Kennedy, toured the former Soviet Union as student goodwill ambassadors, playing packed concerts behind the Iron Curtain and in the Middle East (where he rode a camel!), returning home to sold-out shows at Carnegie Hall.
He taught instrumental music both in public schools and at universities. He left teaching to tour professionally as a percussionist and conductor. Over the years he appeared with the Akron Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, and such notables as Tom Jones, Englebert Humperdink, Paul Anka, Lawrence Welk, and others. Eager to return to teaching, he accepted a position as Director of Bands with the Barberton Public Schools where he remained for 20 years.
When health issues forced an early retirement, he began promoting non-profit community concert series, like the one he started at Barberton's Lake Anna Park 35 years ago.At inception, the Barberton Community Band held 4 concerts a year and was larger than the audience; today attendance for nationally known acts like Rascall Flatts and Lady Antebellum reaches 15,000 and is still free. He could also be counted on to support causes that benefitted children, the schools, athletics and the arts. In later years, he enjoyed golf, time with friends and family, winters in Florida, trips to the hunt country of Virginia, and his beloved Michigan Wolverines.
He leaves behind wife Linda; beloved daughters and sons-in-law Lisa and Robert Allen, and Jane and Ken White; adored granddaughters Caleigh, Elizabeth, Frances and Kellsey, the 19th hole gang at BBCC; and many, many friends.
A private Mass of Christian Burial and interment were held in Virginia, in accordance with his wishes. A memorial service in Barberton is planned within the next few weeks. In lieu of flowers or remembrances, the family suggests donations to the following: the William F. Curtin Memorial Music Scholarship, St.Jude's Children's Hospital, or Challenge Golf.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Curtin
Sponsored by Barry Russell.
Grandpa and his "Roo" (Caleigh). Miss you every day, Dad.
Lisa
September 8, 2016
Debbie Jones Cope
March 14, 2013
Dear Linda,
I, too, just heard of Bill's passing and was one of his fondest admirers in Brattleboro when he played that HUGE bass drum and I was just a little eighth grade trumpet player. I followed his career at Michigan with great pride that one of our hometown boys had made it to the "big time." What a wonderful life he had. It does not surprise me at all that he did so much for so many.
My sincere condolences to you and yur family.
Terry Martin
March 13, 2013
Belated Condolences, but fond memories from Brattleboro, Vermont of "Billy" and his early percussion talents from the Class of his fondest Memories. My thoughts and Prayers to the Family and Friends.
Classof1961.org
2011: Dad after UVa game w/grandaughter & marching band (Love that GO BLUE shirt!)
Lisa Curtin
October 1, 2012
Teri Baldwin-Miller
September 30, 2012
Lisa and Jane,
I was sorry to hear about your Dads' passing. He was one of the "greats". I loved it when he would come over to the house to visit. He and Mom and Dad would sit and shoot the breeze about life in general and music. Just imagine the dance bands and marching bands they have in heaven now!!! God bless you all. Teri
Kimberly Wisilosky
September 29, 2012
My condolences to the Curtin family, I did not know "ole blue eyes" (as we affectionately named him) very long, but I knew him long enough to know what a large hole he is leaving in many lives, and what a light this world has lost.
Ruth Saal
September 26, 2012
Linda my friend, I was so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. What memories the two of you made will be with you forever. Take care!
Jack Spence
September 22, 2012
My condolences to Mr. Curtin's family. I met him when he became the Jr. Band director in Niles, MI. Thanks to him, I met the girl who became my wife.
Irene
September 13, 2012
Linda,
I am sorry for your loss. I knew Bill for the last couple of years and I had the good fortune to attend some of the concerts at Lake Anna. I was not aware of Bill's extensive music background. May Bill rest in peace.
Jimmy Merchant
September 12, 2012
Bill was a very good person and friend, who worked with my wife(June Valli) and me for many years. He was an outstanding musical conductor for us and
worked many many shows . He was a fun guy
to be with and we always looked forward
to seeing him. We loved him like family. He will be greatly missed. Jimmy Merchant &(June Valli deceased 1993)
Tom Scott
September 8, 2012
As with all retired school staff when they pass through the pearly gates, I mourn the loss of Bill Curtin. When I hear of Barberton, Ohio being nicknamed the "Magic City", I think how Bill was a big part of that magic. He had an impact in many lives, both young and old. He was one of the reason many kids decided to become educators, to be like him.
Michael
September 7, 2012
Dear Aunt Linda, kris ans Scott,
I just wanted to tell you how sorry I was to hear about Bill. You always took such good care of him - and each other. May you find peace in your sorrow.
mary Lou
September 7, 2012
Dear Linda, Kris & Scott,
We were so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. We will miss him and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Mary lou & Dean
Rachel McElhaney
September 7, 2012
I have known Mr. Curtin since the mid 70s. My brothers, Louie & Larry were in band and we traveled for competions. Then he taught me how to play trombone at Hazelwood and UL Light. He was an amazing man & musician! Lisa, I'm truely sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family!!
September 7, 2012
I remember Mr. Curtin from U.L. Light. He was an inspiration to us all. Even though he could be tough he made band a class you wanted to be in. He was kind, funny, and a great friend. The world was better for knowing him and his talents, Heaven has gained a wonderful person. I will miss you Mr. Curtin.
Amanda Darnell-Bickett
Krista Cummins
September 7, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Curtains passing. I had him in band in highschool & at U.L.Light middle school. I have thought of him often over the years and wondered how he was...He taught me a lot & I regret never telling him he made a difference.
Stacey Skinner-Baker
September 6, 2012
Thoughts & prayers for the family of Mr. Curtain. I first met Mr. Curtain in band at U.L.Light Middle School. I played Clarinet & Bass Clarinet. Thanks to him, and Mr. Sauvageot, I had the best time of my life with Concert/ Competitions & Marching Band. I will never forget you.
Thomas & Lynn Shearer
September 6, 2012
Sorry to hear of Bills passing. We knew him only from Sebring Village, but always quick with a smile and a kind word. He will be missed. Lynn & Tom Shearer
Edith Claar- Davis
September 6, 2012
Mr curtain taught me to play the clarinet at woodford, when you lived the life that he did that is to be celbrated, I regret never going to mexico when he offered to take a few band kids my senior year, MR Curtin will be missed he was one of the greats,
September 5, 2012
Linda,our thought's are with you,love Donna,Gary
Ben Trickett
September 4, 2012
Aunt Linda, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love you.
Steve Texera
September 4, 2012
I'll never forget "Here Comes
The King" and "Sweet Georgia Brown" blaring from the Pep Band in the balcony at the BHS basketball games. Only years later (over a coke of course) did I learn that it was all done in cahoots with Coach Jack Greynolds. "Let the games (intimidation!) begin," he grinned. He explained when I asked that it was the band's job to support the teams and support he and his bands did!
Lisa, we are so sorry for your loss. You were the light of his life. He wad so proud of you and your family. I can only imagine the depths of sorrow you're experiencing. Know that though he may be gone, the music lives on, and he will never be forgotten.
Maureen Iler
September 4, 2012
Linda, My thoughts and prayers are with you. As time passes, I know you will have many wonderful memories of good times together. Bill was so fortunate to have such a loving, caring wife. Love, Maureen
September 4, 2012
Linda,
Find comfort
Jonna
September 4, 2012
Linda,
Find comfort in knowing what a great wife, caregiver, friend and partner you were to Bill and that he is at peace now. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bonnbie Trickett
September 4, 2012
Dear LINDA,
Please remember all of the many people who called you, or sent you a card - all thanking you for taking such loving and wonderful care of their friend, Bill.
Cherish all of the many good memeories you have of your life together.
Love, Bonnie
Jean Ochsenhirt
September 4, 2012
Linda,
I wanted you to know that I am thinking of you during this difficult time. You were so good to Bill over the years and he was blessed to have you in his life. Take care of yourself and know we are all thinking of you.
Elizabeth Allen
September 3, 2012
Grandpa,
I will never forget your smile, your stories, or the lessons you gave to us on life and golf. You are never far from my thoughts as I check my schedule and catch the latest update on our Wolverines.
I love and miss you.
Kim (Hughes) Stanger
September 3, 2012
Like others, Mr. Curtain made a lasting impression in the 4 years I had him as a teacher. I even forgive the fact that he made us play Michigan's fight song! He was a great inspiration to many, brought out a lot if toughness in us, and shared his passion for music with us. Prayers to his family.
September 3, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Roberta Morgenstern-Hopkins
September 3, 2012
Rest well old neighbor, old friend . . . I am sure "Big Jack", was there to greet you with a Coke (very little ice).
. . . "but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. We will see you aqain someday,in a heavenly place where there is no parting. A place where there are no words that mean good-bye."
Till we all meet again may the Lord hold you in the palm of His hand.
There are no other words for friendship but the one I will use is "Bill".
Michael Carrino and Family
September 3, 2012
Even after decades, your name comes up frequently as one of those all out, tough musicians -- along with the likes of Art Baldwin -- who made most football coaches look like pansies. There is something you and your crew had that I continue to instill into my children: sometimes you don't get a score and maybe some in your crew didn't even know how to read sheet music music; but, you still have got to make the show happen. Sometimes it is was with little more than a heart full of determination and the passions pumping through your soul.
"Gimmie the key and the time signature and let's do this thing!" That, sir, won't go to grave with you -- that part of you stays with us for as long as we can remember it.
It was an honor Mr. Curtin. Thoughts to your loved ones, especially Lisa -- years ago, she gave me the inside scoop on how that whole thing worked and I've been in awe ever since. Now pick up your sticks and your horns and take it from the top!
Mark Grace
September 3, 2012
God Bless you Mr. Curtain. I'll never forget your enthusiastic sharing of those drum corps tapes at band camp. And everytime I tune a drum I hear you saying "can you hear that?" Thanks to you, I can. Drum in peace...
Sal Lanara
September 3, 2012
My memories of doing the fireworks displays for Bill at Lake Anna will always be treasured. He was wonderful to work with and I always appreciated his trust and confidence in myself and Zambelli fireworks. The next shell I fire will be in honor of you, Bill!
Caesar Carrino
September 3, 2012
Dear all,
We were saddened to learn of our good friend's passing. His keen wit, hurorous ways and his great musicianship will never be fogotten.
Please accept our prayerful sypathy.
Caesar and Lynda Carrino
Marie Langford
September 3, 2012
What a beautiful tribute to Bill last night at the Van Dells concert.
Sandra Brumagin
September 3, 2012
He was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Robert Velloney
September 3, 2012
My sincere sympathies to Linda, Lisa and
the entire Curtin family. Bill was a joy
with whom to work and taught my son how
to play the timpani.Everyone will miss
Bill's smiling face and his love of music.
Lisa Curtin Allen
September 3, 2012
Dad - You were my mom, my dad, and my best friend. The world is a little less bright without your warm smile and laughing Irish eyes. I can't hear Hail to the Victors, Danny Boy, Dixie or How Great Thou Art without thinking of you. Our family treasures those last days with you ... what a gift you gave us. You were taken much too soon; I guess God needed one heck of a drummer!
I'm sure you're holding court at a 19th hole in heaven: a tale on your tongue, a Coke in your hand ( we know , very little ice!) and a smile on your face. Fair winds and following seas, Dad. We love and miss you so very much ...
Honored by the Barberton Sports Hall of Fame!
Rudy A Sharkey
September 2, 2012
& a Michigan man too..
Rudy A Sharkey
September 2, 2012
Bill was a special man to all who knew him. Our time together as coach and Band Director were priceless. Quick with the wit and an easy smile with soft eyes. He made football games even more exciting. Do you remember how the music would fill the air and as the QB barked the signals it would grow into a soft undertone and then Just "BLAST" out on the snap of the ball My Prayers to Linda, Lisa and the families.. I will miss my dear friend. He added some Magic to our city..
James Shultz II
September 2, 2012
My condolences to Mr. Curtain's wife and the family of both. I had Mr. Curtain as my music teacher from 5th to 7th grade. He was a great teacher and an even better man.
Diana Orozco
September 2, 2012
I remember Mr. Curtain well. He will be missed.
Donna Koster
September 2, 2012
Bill put music in the air in Barberton-his enthusiasm for everything musical was contagious! Always a smile on his face and a friendly greeting-he will be missed. My sympathy to Linda & family
September 2, 2012
Sending our heartfelt condolences to you Linda and to Bill's and your families. Bill's presence will be sadly missed in Sebring Village and everywhere that he was known. Pray God gives you comfort. Love, Russell & Terry Millner
September 2, 2012
one of my fondest memories of the time I spent with my old band was meeting Bill and having him book us at lake ann, in both 1992 and 1993, just too bad that the band was close to breaking up at the time after over 20 yearsm he also spoke kindly of my father who taught band at Tallmadge at the same time Bill taught in Barberton
Shauna Harper
September 2, 2012
Mr. Curtin was the best band directors I have ever had. He was tough, but he knew his music. I am a better musician because of his wisdom! Barberton will miss you! All my love to the Curtin family he was a great man!
Scott Snowden
September 2, 2012
Mr Curtin was my middle school band director at UL Light in the early 90s. this guy could and would send you home crying on Monday because of how bad you were and by Wednesday have you thinking you were the best player in the band and then back to crying by Friday. I learned a lot about life from those lessons. God got a good one. RIP Mr. Curtin.
Jason Seiberling
September 2, 2012
What a blessing to so many, may his kindness and selflessness be remembered...my prayers to the family....
William Shaffer
September 2, 2012
One of my Favorite Band Teachers you will be Greatly missed. You taught me of to play my first instrument and i will never forget that
Cindy Fleet
September 2, 2012
I have been a resident of the downtown Barberton area for the last 35 years. Bill Curtin's absence at the summer concerts at the Lake Anna Gazebo will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family.
September 2, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Bill leaves many wonderful memories to us in Sebring Village.
Harry & Gerry Hunsicker
Beth Hummel
September 2, 2012
To the man who first gave me the gift of music. He would be stern when necessary but when he laughed, his blue eyes twinkled. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Heather Hughes
September 2, 2012
Mr. Curtain you were an amazing band director. My first solo and ensemble contest I was so scared and you said enough with that nonsense you can do it. My love of music continues today even though I don't play much anymore everytime I look at my instrument I think of you. I loved seeing you at the lake setting up stuff for the concerts. Prayers for your family you will be greatly missed.
Jeanine Garry (Basile)
September 2, 2012
Mr. Curtin was a great man! I was in the Barberton Band and had the pleasure of meeting and playing under him. Being the daughter of a music educator and knowing how important music arts are to our children, I appreciate everything he has done. God Bless all of you in this most difficult time and remember what an inspiration he was to many.
September 2, 2012
We are honored to have known him and call him a friend. We will miss him but always smile when we remember Bill. Kendall and Laurie Reed
pam reed
September 2, 2012
I work for the City of Barberton & had many talks with Bill mostly about county music, trying to get him to book my favorites. He was a great guy, never saw him without a smile on his face. We'll miss him a lot.
Dee Hardy
September 2, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Don & Cheryl Dixon
September 2, 2012
Linda, our condolesences are with you at this time, we will miss him alot in sebring village,we had alot of good times together.He was the best MC.
Bob Iverson
September 2, 2012
Remembering your great love story today and always.
Kris Nixon-Stemple
September 2, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are for the family of Mr. Curtin. I remember him well from grade school many years ago. He will never be forgotten.
Jane Curtin-White
September 2, 2012
Love you dad......
Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results
Make a Donation
in William Curtin's name
Memorial Events
for William Curtin
How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor William Curtin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
