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Michael Curley Obituary
Mike passed away last weekend after 60 years of life with those he loved and enjoyed making laugh. Born in Rockville Centre, New York on April 20, 1955, he grew up there before attending State University of New York. During the fall of his freshman year in 1973, he met Nancy and they've been together ever since. Both headed to graduate school at the University of Notre Dame where Mike graduated with his JD and Nancy her MBA. They married in New York in 1981 and moved to Phoenix later that year.
He started his law career at Jennings, Strouss and Salmon and shortly thereafter began his long partnership with Stephen Earl at Earl, Curley, & Lagarde in their zoning practice. Mike and Nancy welcomed daughter Kathleen and sons Kevin and Chris, and being with family was one of his favorite activities. He also enjoyed watching Notre Dame football, spending time with friends, playing golf, going out to dinner and buying everyone a round of drinks.
Mike's service to the community included membership on the Board of Central Arizona Shelter Services as well as charitable and pro bono work for Brophy/Xavier students, the Phoenix Community Alliance and the Thunderbirds (Special Olympics). Along with his wife and children, he is survived by his brother Robert (Karen) and sister Nadine Verbesey (Paul), and pre-deceased by his sister Kathleen Hess (Jim, also deceased). A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 7th
6:30 pm-7:30 pm
Brophy College Preparatory in the Great Hall
4701 N. Central Avenue
Please park in the south lot, via Central Avenue.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, July 8th
2:00 pm
St. Francis Xavier Church
4715 N. Central Avenue
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one the following in memory of Michael:
Brophy Loyola Academy
4701 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85012
http://www.brophyprep.org/loyolaacademy/home/donate/
Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS)
230 S. 12th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85007
http://www.cassaz.org/give.html
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Curley
Sponsored by His Loving Family .
Connie Daugherty-Koenig
June 29, 2020
Hi Bobby! Love your comments. Your relationship was unique, and I cannot imagine. I think of him often. Still impossible to believe this world is void of his presence. Loved talking to you Signed, his old secretary.
Bobby Curley
June 28, 2020
Think of Mike every single day, and miss him with all my heart. He was not only my brother, he was the best friend I ever had. Life has not been the same for the past 5 years. In particular, I miss our multiple
daily phone calls (many of which were not necessarily PC), miss the frequent updates of the lunatic pranks pulled by Jimmy Harrison on you, and your pranks on him. Very mature on both parts:)! I know for certain that your loving wife, Nancy, and fabulous kids: Kathleen, Kevin and Chris miss you with their entire beings. I miss you, and love you my brother. Bobby
Denver McGarey
June 28, 2020
Michael was a great man and larger than life in so many ways. He is missed and there will never be another like Michael. You are loved, Brother!
Scott Deutsch
March 30, 2020
Not sure you received my sympathy for Michael...I don't have an email ..my cell number is 516.978.1766..Scott Deutsch
Chris Schaffner
February 5, 2016
Dear Curley family,
I just learned of Mike's passing, and was quite saddened to hear it. I did not know Mike well, but I often saw him down at the Kiva in Scottsdale. Many times we were on the opposite sides of zoning issues, but I always appreciated Mike's kindness, class, and sincerity. Even at first meeting, it was clear to me Mike was a good and honorable man. My deep condolences for your loss.
Sincerely,
Chris Schaffner
Deborah Griffith
December 9, 2015
Dear Nancy and family, I just heard today from one of my fellow judges that Mike had passed away this past July. I am so shocked and terribly saddened by this news. You may not remember me, but I graduated from Notre Dame Law School the year before Mike did, and I got to know him quite well when we were there. Over the years, I have run into him at Notre Dame functions, the Phoenix Open, or the Phoenix City Council Chambers, and it was like the years had never passed. He was always the same, great guy that I knew in law school. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss; my heart is just breaking. I will keep Mike, you, and your family in my thoughts and prayers over the many days and months to come. Sincerely, Deborah Griffith, NDL '79
Irene Lazaridis Navis
November 13, 2015
Nancy and family, I found out about Mike's passing from Connie Doughterty. Connie and I worked with Mike at Jennings, Strouss and he was always such a pleasure to work with. We worked hard, but he made it fun, and he was always such a good person to talk to and learn from. Even though we did not stay in touch over the years, I will always remember his laugh, his ready smile, and his ability to tease and be kind all at the same time. God bless you as you continue to deal with your grief and loss.
Connie Daugherty-Koenig
November 12, 2015
Nancy, I found out today and cannot breath. The time I spent working for him, and getting to know you and Kathleen as a single girl far from home, was the most impressionable time of my young life. I loved him like a brother I never had, and his voice and laugh are still a short memory away. I am more than sorry for your loss... I am heartbroken. Life without Mike in this world will be a different one. I can still hear him yelling at me for telling him I was having "fish for dinner"! I love you Nancy, and hope to one day give you a hug in person. Prayers for you all. Love, Connie
Kiki
July 26, 2015
"When you love and laugh abundantly, you live a beautiful life." I love you Daddy.
David Cavazos
July 18, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the Curley family. I will never forget Mike.
Michael Dickson
July 15, 2015
My condolences.
Cheryl Padden
July 13, 2015
Hey Nancy, I am so sorry to hear about this and send you much love. Hugs, Cheryl
Pat Gallagher
July 13, 2015
Nancy and family,
Very shocked feeling when I learned of Mike's passing. Should have reached out to you sooner but didn't and still don't know what to say. Talked to Shakey for over an hour and keep looking at old pictures. They say that our relationships in life, no matter how brief, are the cornerstones to mutual happiness. Mike certainly was a cornerstone, and someone whose relationship with all of us always made us more happy. It was absolutely impossible to be sad or unhappy around him. He would not have it! And he'd always find a way to cheer you up! Just thinking about him makes me smile. God Bless him.
Nancy (McLaughlin) Thiel
July 11, 2015
Nancy ~ what a shock to hear of Mike's passing...way too soon. I met Mike at our first Huntington~Hayes Hall "mixer"! He was funny then, and all of my memories of him at Oneonta are humorous! The time I went out to Arizona and visited with you, I have no idea what we did, or what anyone said, all I remember was that we were laughing!
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Fred Kopko
July 10, 2015
My deepest sympathies to Nancy and his entire family. Mike was genuine, easy to talk to and fun. He and I stood up for Hugh McBreen at his wedding, and thankfully he thought to bring whiskey to the alter. A fine member of the RATS. It is difficult to accept this loss.
Tom Bradley
July 10, 2015
Our law school softball team has lost its first baseman. Mike was such a great guy and always a real gentleman. Nancy and family so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat (Wabshaw) Weaver
July 9, 2015
Nancy, we've been out of touch for quite a while, but I wanted to send my thoughts and prayers your way. I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember way back in my Radisson days, Mike (as a favor through you) helped me with my first will. I know you have your family around you for support; just wanted to let you know an old friend is thinking about you.
July 8, 2015
Dear Nancy and Family,
I was a law school classmate of Mike, and the only way I can remember him is with a big, friendly smile on his face. What a great guy. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Beverly Peyton Griffith '80L
Jim Edgerton
July 8, 2015
Mike,
May your soul rest in peace. You truly were a great husband, dad & friend to many!! Thanks
Jim Edgerton
July 8, 2015
I had the honor to meet Mike a few years back. We ran in different circles but we knew of each other. Over the last 4 to 5 years I would see Mike in San Diego sitting along the boardwalk at Clark's house reading the paper, a article or drinking a few cold beverages. Or I would see Mike in Phoenix at the Tee Pee, Arcadia Tavern, JT's or one of the local spots. Mike was always very outgoing to me always reaching out to say hello. Mike learned I worked for a business located in Chicago. Mike always was very proud of his education at ND and always talked about how proud he was of his dear wife, children and very dear friends. My deepest condolences to Mike's dear family and friends. He shared many great times with everyone who had the privilege and honor to call Mike husband, father and friend. Mike Curley may your soul now be with the lord rest in peace my friend. Jim Edgerton
Jack Horak
July 8, 2015
So sad to hear this news about a great guy and lawyer -- and a ND Classmate. Condolences to his family and friends.
Skip Niemiec
July 8, 2015
The Notre Dame family and the local community have lost a true leader. Mike's irrepressible humor, Irish charm and talent will be missed.
---Skip Niemiec, B. of Arch ND Class of '76
Yvonne Salatas
July 8, 2015
I had the pleasure of working with Mike when I first moved to the State. He brought a smile to my face many times, he was such a funny, sweet man whose presence will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Guadalupe
July 8, 2015
Curley:
Thank you for being a friend.
Mrs. Curley and Children:
My sincere condolences, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sandy Ferniza
July 7, 2015
An infectious grin, great wit, intelligent and passionate on behalf of his clients! As a former member of the PHX Planning Commission I had the good fortune to listen to Mike advocate on behalf of his clients. He was respectful, well-prepared and willing to listen and find mutual agreement when necessary. Having just run into him recently and been warmly greeted it's difficult to imagine that we won't see that wonderful smile again. Condolences to his family and friends.
July 7, 2015
And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of HIs hand. With prayers for you and all the Curley family and gratitude for Mike's big heart, easy smile and laughter. Jane Farrell, NDL '80
Steve Barclay
July 7, 2015
To Nancy and family: my deepest sympathies go out to you over the loss of Mike, a wonderful husband, father, friend and community leader. Mike was a classmate of mine at ND and he was loved by our entire class. He will be remembered as one of the nicest, most talented attorneys here in the Valley. God bless and keep you all.
Remigio Cordero
July 7, 2015
Mike was always great guy to work with, as I worked on lots of projects with him and Ric. I lost my Dad last year and Mike never knew my dad, and he and Ric were there for me at my Dad's funeral. He gave his condolences and support to me and my Mom, and that will always be with me forever. God Bless you Mike and say hello to my Dad for me, he was funny and a kind hearted Man like you were, so you two will get along great. My condolences to the Curley Family, your Husband / Dad was an awesome guy!
Lisa Bentley
July 7, 2015
Our hearts are with all the Curleys today, tomorrow & always, words cannot express how much. We send our luv & hugs to u guys!
The Bentleys
Anne and Brad Jones
July 7, 2015
Nancy, Kathleen, Kevin and Chris, Your dad was such a wonderful man and amazing role model for our sons. We are so grateful to him and your family for opening up your home and hearts and so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy.
Paula Metsopolos
July 7, 2015
Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss. I am here for you in any way you need my friend. My prayers are with you and your family.
Dan D'Antonio
July 7, 2015
The world is a little more sad and quiet today. His wit and humor are gone. Although I have not seen Mike since law school graduation, I could never watch an SNL Weekend Update without remembering his performances at the annual Law School talent shows. SNL had nothing on him.
Kathy, Kevin and Chris: please take great comfort in this: I cannot imagine anyone who ever met Mike Curley who didn't like him. Leaving behind only friends in this world is a rare trait, indeed. Our thoughts are with you and our prayers are offered for God to give you His strength and grace in this difficult time. Michael, until the ultimate RATS reunion . . .
July 7, 2015
Nancy, Kathleen, Kevin and Chris, I am so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know he will always be with you too. Love Liz Kinchen.
Keith Stone
July 6, 2015
Mike ....I love you and Nance....thank you for your kindness and always such great words of non BS...your real people to the bone...I am still in shock and more than ever realize that GOD has the MAJOR LEAGUE FINAL PLAN !! May you guide the family from heaven everyday and we will keep you in our daily prayers.....love always Keith Stone and Family.....XXOO....
Nick DiGiovanni
July 6, 2015
Mike added so much to our law school experience and he will be fondly remembered by us all. Here's to a fine man and a loyal friend. Thanks Mike and God bless you and your family. We will see you at the ultimate RATS reunion
Steve Poe
July 6, 2015
Mike was one of the few zoning attorneys I trusted to ALWAYS give me the straight scoop when dealing with him. My years on the Peoria City Council back 20+ years ago was made easier and more enjoyable by his grace and knowledge. My deep condolences to all your family members.
Caroline and Kyler Queen
July 6, 2015
Kathleen, Kevin, Chris and Nancy-
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Although we never had the pleasure of meeting Mike, we know he was a man of great humor, passion and love for his family. The world has lost someone truly special. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time. Lean on each other and cherish the wonderful memories you have.
July 6, 2015
The Irish Family has lost a valued member and also a great zoning attorney.
Mark Forrester, ND Grad - 1969
Adam Pruett
July 6, 2015
I'm lucky to have had the privilege of knowing Mike and the joy he brought to the world. He is missed already.
JoAnn Troutman
July 6, 2015
Mike was a kind and generous man. He will truly be missed.
Janet Leppo
July 6, 2015
Dear Karen, Bob, and family,
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Thinking of you and your loved one. Our condolences to you all on your sudden loss.
Scott Britton
July 6, 2015
Our thoughts & prayers are with your family. I can only start to imagine what you are feeling now. Please know that you will gradually find comfort in all the happy memories and that he is keeping a watchful eye on you.
Dennis Kearney
July 6, 2015
The soul of our law class. Mike's heart had enough room to make friends of us all. I am blessed to have known him.
Denver McGarey
July 6, 2015
We have lost a giant. Mike was a force in life and his work in Arizona has been nothing short of legendary. Nancy, the love and kindness you and Mike showed my mother is simply beyond compare. I loved Mike and am proud to have been part of the Curley love and laughter that rained down from above. Heartbroken for you and your beautiful family, Denver XO
Bernald Porter
July 6, 2015
Nancy and family - May the many memories he helped create find root in your hearts and bring sweet recollection to your minds as you both mourn and celebrate his great life, and may God bless you as you deal with his passing.
July 6, 2015
Robert W. Bandeen aka Buffalo Bob. He was a good guy. Saw Mike at 25th ND Reunion, glad I did.
The Anderson Family
July 5, 2015
Thinking of all who Mike touched throughout his life. Very sorry for your loss. Saw him at many Chandler City Council Meetings and he always seemed like a genuine guy with great intentions. He will be greatly missed.
Jill Hegardt
July 5, 2015
I am so saddened to hear about Mikes untimely passing. While I haven't seen him in a couple of years, I've known him for many, many years through business. I first met Mike when I was a planner at Maricopa County and of course, he was one of the finest zoning attorney's in town and I know he was well liked and respected by the planning community. I worked with him on countless cases through the years and we would often talk about the Notre Dame-USC football game and who was going to prevail that year. I also remember running into him often at the Phoenix Open, he clad in his Thunderbird's garb, always with a smile on his face. I remember hearing countless stories of him and pranks he and his friends would play on each other and it was clear he always enjoyed life and engaging with people. He will be sorely missed.
Sandi Kanjorski-Currier
July 5, 2015
Nancy.... I am heartbroken for you and yours upon hearing the news about Mike on Saturday from Robin. It is with happiness and love that I remember our 4 years at Oneonta and the many humorous times we all spent together. I can only imagine how awful this is for you and your children. I am glad I got to see you both the few times I was in Arizona and know that you are in my heart and prayers at this time.
Much Love Nancy
July 5, 2015
I am so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. I was also in Mike's 1980 ND Law School class. He had a big heart and joyful presence. May that spirit sustain you. Judy McMorrow
Mark, Sandy and Mark Nageotte
July 5, 2015
Nancy, Chris and family: Our most deepest sympathy goes out to you on the loss of your beloved husband/dad. Mike was genuinely one of the nicest persons on Earth and will be greatly missed. God bless you all with strength to get you through the next few days, weeks and peace in your hearts in knowing you were all so loved by him. We will continue to keep you in our prayers and thoughts. Take care of each other.
Mark, Sandy and Mark Nageotte
July 5, 2015
Nancy, Chris and family: Our most deepest sympathy goes out to you on the loss of your beloved husband/dad. Mike was genuinely one of the nicest persons on Earth and will be greatly missed. God bless you all with strength to get you through the next few days, weeks and peace in your hearts in knowing you were all so loved by him. We will continue to keep you in our prayers and thoughts. Take care of each other.
July 5, 2015
I'm so sorry for your loss. May you be comforted by the love and support you receive during this difficult time. (Proverbs 17:17)
Antonia Chambers
July 5, 2015
I was a law school classmate of Mike's. He was always so nice to everyone, and it was great having him as a classmate. I am so sorry for your loss. My husband passed away suddenly in 2010, and it is such a shock. I feel deeply for you all at this most difficult time--you are in my thoughts and prayers. Antonia (Greenman) Chambers ND Law '80
David Parchen
July 5, 2015
Until the Resurrection.
KK Clark, RN
July 5, 2015
Thank you Michael for your service to our community.
Maxwell Griffin
July 5, 2015
My deepest condolences to all of the family. I was a classmate and remember Mike fondly. He left us too soon.
Tina Walsh McLaughlin
July 5, 2015
Dear Nancy and family, I am so sorry to hear of your profound loss. I was one of Mike's classmates at ND and fondly remember his ever present smile and good nature. God bless you all.
July 4, 2015
Nancy and Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. We were very sad to hear the news. Tom and Dillon Costa. NDL ' 80
John Clark
July 4, 2015
One of the nicest men to walk the streets of Phoenix. Have a safe journey and rest in peace my friend.
Emilio Gaynor
July 4, 2015
Curley Family. It was my privilege to know Mike. May God bless your family and strengthen you so you can continue his legacy of love, friendship and stewardship.
Mary K. Rochford
July 4, 2015
Nancy, please know how sorry I am and that you and your family are in my prayers. Mike was a treasured member of the Notre Dame family...one of a kind ...full of laughter and friendship.
With deep sympathy, Mary Kay Rochford
michael oconnor
July 4, 2015
I am saddened to learn of Michael's passing. We have two great things in common...our love of Brophy and Notre Dame and I'm happy to say I saw him recently at each campus. Michael's family is in my prayers. Sincerely- Michael C. O'Connor
July 4, 2015
Nancy and family
So sorry to hear the news about Mike. He was certainly very important to our son Trevor during his formative years and took time to mentor and be with all of Kevin's friends after the many overnight stays at the Curley household and their subsequent tenure at Brophy Prep. Kev-man Curley is one of my favorites of all of the Stone boys' friends and know that he has a lot of support from all of his friends and family in moving forward. Mike had the rare ability to light up a room with his presence. The planet certainly took a setback with his loss.
With deepest sympathy
Tim Stone
Debbi Thomas Boye
July 4, 2015
I had the pleasure of attending law school with Mike and of living with Nancy for a year in South Bend. They were a fun loving and committed couple back then and it is nice to know that they remained so over the years. Although I haven't seen Mike since law school graduation, I can still picture him and hear him (particulary his New York accent since I was raised in Little Rock, Arkansas). Nancy, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Sheila O'Brien
July 4, 2015
Dear Nancy and Children,
Please accept our sympathies and prayers on the death of Mike. Those words seem impossible to write. Mike was a great guy, everyone's favorite in the ND Law Class of 1980. What a wit and a warm, good heart. Too young, with still so much to give. Prayers for all of you....Sheila O'Brien, ND Law 1980
July 4, 2015
Michael and I had the pleasure of joining the Jim Harrison clan on a fishing trip on the Green River at the Royal Gorge many years ago. We bonded immediately, and had a wonderful weekend together. What a great personality! We will all miss him. John G. Plumley
Brick Sidles
July 4, 2015
My sincere condolences to Mike's family. I had the pleasure of knowing Mike socially and in business. Fun memories together and much respect for his attributes in the field of law. Mike will be greatly missed.
Richard Fox
July 4, 2015
One of the nicest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing. Loved his Porsche 911 Targa, always wanted it, ha ha. What a sad day in Phoenix, at the loss of Mike.
Sharon Rossy
July 3, 2015
Dear Nancy
Richard and I had the wonderful opportunity to meet you and Mike to share in the celebration of Kathleen's and Nicholas' graduation from Notre Dame, and to the beginning of their new life together. It was obvious what a close and loving family you are and it was comforting to know our children were in good hands. That will always remain a special memory for Richard and me.
Kathleen you are a dear and special person to us and it was heart breaking to witness your grief. We know first hand what a hard journey this is but we also know your family's deep love will help guide you through the rough waters.
Kevin and Chris please know we send our thoughts and prayers to you as well.
Keep Mike's legacy alive by living life as he would and share his wonderful spirit which was so evident. Our hearts and prayers are with you. God Bless you.
Sharon and Richard Rossy and Family
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