1924
2013
Curtis, Donald D.
Donald DeRoy Curtis, 89 of Appleton, died on Saturday, April 6, 2013 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 5, 1924 in Beloit, Wisconsin, the son of the late Hugh Curtis and Cleora Curtis Poff. On April 15, 1944 Donald married Margie Elaine Morris, the love of his life.
Donald served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps Weather Service. Upon his return from the service, Don and Margie shared many wonderful years farming in Rock County. After suffering injuries that left him unable to continue farming, Don pursued a career as a machinist, working first at Beloit Corporation before moving to Fairfield, California in 1966, where he was employed as a master machinist and shop planner at Mare Island Naval Shipyard from 1966 until retiring in 1986. Upon retirement, Don and Margie enjoyed RVing, visiting family and friends around the country. In his leisure time, he enjoyed gardening and woodworking. In 1991, Marge and Don returned to Wisconsin to settle in Appleton.
Donald set an example of Christian faith for his family by teaching them the power of prayer and by participating throughout his life in the Lutheran church. He will be remembered always for his positive attitude, his ever faithful love for his wife and family, and an amazing tenacity in the face of adversity. Donald lived with cancer twice during his later years. In 2003, he was stricken with blindness. In 2006 he lost Margie, after 62 years of marriage. In spite of these losses, Don spent the rest of his years leading a rich and inspiring life sustained by the loving care of his son-in-law Tim, daughter Linda, and granddaughter Lindsey.
At 79, Don learned to type, and through email stayed in contact with family and friends across the country. He continued his lifelong education, listening to countless books, participating in church, discussing events of the day and freely donating his time, energy and enthusiasm in any way he could. He astounded and inspired all those around him with his sharp wit, his kind and gentle heart, and his constant reverence for God and country.
Don is survived by four children, Linda (Tim) Olson, Appleton, WI, Cindy Myatt, Coos Bay, OR, John (Lee) Curtis, Rapid City, SD, and Jeff (Jacki) Curtis, Fairfield, CA; 11 grandchildren, Lindsey Olson, Jason Curtis, Jamie (John) Berglund, Sonjia Christianson, Sarah (Austin) Lyons, Suzanne (Anthony) Awad, Shannon (Joshua) Parra, Tabetha Myatt, Simon Myatt, Colin Myatt, and Kyllean Myatt; nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; six sisters, Patricia Insko, Deloris Morris, Lucille Smith, Leone Truesdill, Kathryn Burner, and Joyce Crall; sister-in-law Maxine Worden, and special cousin, Elinore Strommen. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margie.
Funeral service will be 2:00 PM on Thursday April 11, 2013 at OUR SAVIOUR'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 3009 N. Meade St, Appleton, with Rev. Kurt Hoffman officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Thursday beginning at 1:00 PM until the hour of service.
A second funeral service will be at 2:00PM on Friday April 12, 2013, at LUTHER VALLEY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 7107 South Luther Valley Road, Beloit. Visitation will begin at 1:00PM until the hour of service. Interment will be in Luther Valley Cemetery, Beloit, WI.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
I only knew of Donald Curtis through his son, Jeff. Over a period of several years I learned of his courage, grace, and endless faith. The love in Jeff's voice when he spoke of his father was very apparent. What a wonderful man and legacy. My condolences and prayers are with you all during this time of loss. I believe Donald is now basked in God's eternal love and joyful purpose.
With Love and faith in Christ,
Trent Gardner
April 14, 2013
Your dad was a sweet man. He was such a good example of faith and courage. I know you have many wonderful memories that will keep him in your hearts forever. As it was said, now he is with Margie, and has his sight and hearing back. He is at peace and has his reward for a long and faithful life. Love to all of you. ~Judy & Rick Hernke
April 11, 2013
Linda,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much you loved your Dad. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love you.
Ellen Sauer
April 10, 2013
Tim, Linda and Lindsey-So sorry for the loss of your Dad and Grandpa. I know he was so lucky to have you caring for him in his final years/days and you having him with you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. With love- Melanie Cieslek Matis
Melanie Matis
April 9, 2013
My thoughts and prayers to your family Linda. Best wishes, Jim Thaldorf
Jim Thaldorf
April 9, 2013
Linda,
From reading your Dad's obit, I can tell he was a wonderful and compassionate man. You're in my thoughts and prayers. ~Tim Gehring, ANHS
April 9, 2013
Linda, I am sad to hear about your loss, but happy that you had this time to spend with him. You and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs. Lori Dougherty
April 9, 2013
Linda:) So sorry to hear about your dad. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless! Tracy Wydeven
April 9, 2013
Linda and Tim...I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad..my heart goes out to you and your family..my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. xxoo
Melanie Fiorito
April 9, 2013
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