Robert A. Curley

1931 - 2018

Robert A. Curley

Phoenix - July 13, 1931 - October 2, 2018

Bob was born and raised in Chicago, IL, the eldest child of Rose and Stanley Curley. He attended St. Basil Catholic Grammar School, De La Salle Institute high school, completed his Bachelor of Science at the University of Illinois, earned his J.D. from the DePaul University College of Law, and served as an officer in the U.S. Army. He is survived by the love of his life, wife, Betty; children, Robert, Jr. (Barbara), Leslie (Mike) DeVolder and Cathy; eight grandchildren (Robert Curley, III, Maeve Curley, Emily DeVolder, Claire DeVolder, Jack DeVolder, Emma Topping, Campbell Topping, and Oliver Topping); and his twin sisters, Joan Ulaszek and Dolores Kustom. Married for 61 years, Bob enjoyed many wonder-filled adventures with Betty, traveling the world, enjoying new experiences and vistas, and making life-long friends all along the way. Their home was frequently the hub of social activity, with friends, family and work colleagues all gathering together for generous hospitality which usually featured sporting competitions ("Fairfield Rules" always applied, gold medals awarded after), dance and song. A gifted businessman, Bob undertook a succession of corporate counsel/executive management positions at Simoniz, Brunswick, Apeco Corporation, ultimately serving as CEO of PC Distributing. He was a proud member of the Chicago, Illinois State and American Bar Associations. Throughout his career he was known for his calm demeanor under pressure, strong principles, fairness, and for being a great mentor. He approached all life's endeavors with a positive spirit, great gusto and a terrific sense of humor. No matter the situation, Bob was always quick with a joke to make everyone feel comfortable. As an active member in his church and civic communities, Bob served in various capacities at the Church of St. Mary (Lake Forest, IL), St. Patrick Catholic Community (Scottsdale, AZ), the St. Mary's Men's CRHP group, the Knights of Columbus, the board of Boys Hope, Kiwanis, the planning commission for the City of Lake Forest, the Lake Forest Croquet Club, the board of the homeowners' association of DC Ranch (Scottsdale), extraordinary minister for the Sagewood Catholic community and a founding member of the Audubon Road Social Society (Riverside, IL). Bob also loved sports, especially playing them. He was a gifted tennis player, but also enjoyed golf, skiing, windsurfing, basketball and volleyball. A Chicagoan at heart, he was an avid fan of the White Sox, Bears, Bulls and 'Hawks. Everyone who knew him will miss his passion for life. After battling the effects of Parkinson's for the past several years, he returned to heaven peacefully after spending his final days with his wife and children at his side. A Mass and celebration of life will be held at the Oasis Center at Sagewood, 4555 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix on Monday, October 22nd at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities or the National Parkinson's Foundation.