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Dustin Curley Obituary

Airman First Class Dustin James Curley, 26, of Enfield, passed away suddenly on Nov. 7, 2010, at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, Ind.

Born in Hartford on June 14, 1984, beloved son of Dennis Patrick and Karen (McLean) Curley of Enfield, he was raised in Enfield, attended Enfield public schools and graduated with the Class of 2002 from Enfield High School. Dustin continued his education at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, earning a bachelor of arts in psychology in 2006 with a 3.8 GPA and as a member of both the dean's list and the Psychology Honor Society. After his graduation from UConn, Dustin took a position at the Capital Region Educational Council (CREC), River Street Autism Program in Hartford. While at the River Street Program, Dustin discovered his passion for working with autistic children and decided to return to school at Central Connecticut State University to pursue a graduate degree in special education. While attending classes he enlisted in the Massachusetts Air National Guard and graduated from basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, in 2007. After his training, he was activated to the U.S. Air Force and was transferred to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, where he remained stationed for the last two years. Dustin was very athletic and health conscious. He enjoyed going to the gym, hiking, and practicing and competing in mixed martial arts. He had attended the Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy and was an accomplished fighter. He also loved nature and being in the great outdoors, hiking, playing paintball, golfing, snowboarding, or just spending time with his friends and family. Dustin enjoyed all types of music, especially reggae, jazz, and bluegrass, and he was a big fan of Bob Marley and Led Zeppelin. While he had a crazy sense of humor and could make anybody laugh, he was admired by his friends and family as a genuine and thoughtful person. Many people in Dustin's life considered him their best friend and he was always looked up to as a role model and source for sound advice whenever it was needed. He took time to be with his many friends and family whenever he was visiting his hometown and he spoke regularly with his high school and college classmates.

Besides his loving parents, he leaves two sisters, Stacie Lynn Curley and Shannon Marie Curley of Enfield; his girlfriend, Christina Carlisle of Tucson, Ariz.; six uncles, two aunts, and numerous cousins; other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by grandparents, David and Lynn Curley, and Harry and Doris McLean.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Nov. 19, at 9 a.m., at the Enfield Congregational Church, 1295 Enfield St., Enfield. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery, Enfield.

His family will receive friends on Thursday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Carmon Windsor Funeral Home, 807 Bloomfield Ave., Windsor.

Donations in memory of Dustin may be made to The River Street Autism Program, 34 Sequassen St., Hartford, CT 06106.

For online condolences, please visit

www.carmonfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal Inquirer from Nov. 16 to Nov. 20, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Dustin Curley

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Barbara McLean-Pelletier

November 14, 2011

DUSTIN, I miss you and your great big wonderful, mischievious smile. No one ever knew what you would come up with to entertain people, but it was always hilarious. Now I'm sure you are entertaining everyone who is with you in heaven. We will all be together eventually. Love you Dust, Aunt Barb.

November 11, 2011

It's hard to believe a year has gone by - sometimes it feels like forever and other times like yesterday. Today it is ten years since Grammy Curley left us - we know you are embraced by all your grandparents -
We love and miss all of you

Barbara McLean-Pelletier

June 18, 2011

I just started working with a little boy who goes to the school where Dustin worked. I feel closer to Dustin just by talking to staff who work there, who knew him so very well, and miss him so much. He left such a big impression and wonderful memories for the people at this school, including the students; some who would only respond to him. I think of Dustin often especially at this school. I wonder what he is doing now, but I know it has to be something to help someone and cheer them up. And I know he watches over us all. I miss him and he is in my prayers always.

Marianne Curley

June 17, 2011

I was thinking of my nephew Dustin this morning, on my way to work. Such a handsome man, and a good person too! Today is the 11th anniversary of my sister Suzanne's passing. Maybe you are with her today, maybe that is why you came into my mind this morning.I think of you often, and you are always in my prayers. Watch over us all, as I am sure you are close to God. Just wanted to let you know I always think of you. Love...Aunt Marianne

Dave Curley

June 15, 2011

Dont really know what to say.I think about Dustin everyday.And miss him.I know he watches over all of us.

June 14, 2011

Happy Birthday in Heaven - I know you are watching over your family - help them get through the tough days - We love you and miss you

Love, Gigi

Barbara McLean-Pelletier

March 7, 2011

It is now March 7, 2011 and Spring is just around the corner. It's been 4 months since Dustin has been gone and it seems just like yesterday. I miss you Dustin, but I console myself with the knowledge that you were so happy here you must be just as happy in heaven! And I am sure you have a job up there making people happy too. I just wish that you could have stayed here longer than you were given time for. I miss you Dustin, but I know I will see you again.
All My Love,
Auntie Barb

December 14, 2010

Dennis, Karen, family and extended families, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Dustin. We never knew him but we are sure coming from the parents and cousins he had, he was a real delight. We only hope that his memories will live in your hearts forever and your friends and family will help you ease your pain. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Lovingly, Dupey Tudan Van Egas

Shannon Curley

December 8, 2010

I love u

David olson

December 7, 2010

I am a truck driver who came upon the accident just after it happened. I would like to wish the curley family my deepest condolences for their loss. i comforted stacy that evening and did all I could to help dustin. i pray dustin is just as happy in heaven as he was on earth.

Jennifer Hess

November 22, 2010

I had the distinct pleasure of having A1C Curley work in my office for the past 6 months. He always came to work with a great attitude and it was wonderful having him in the office. He modeled how to live by the Air Force Core Values ... Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All You Do. He was an outstanding airman and will be greatly missed. He was also a sweet young man who would take the time to listen to my children tell their stories or play games on his phone when they would visit the office. There are not words to express the sorrow that is shared with the Curley family over the loss of such a caring young man.

Walt & Cindy Kos

November 19, 2010

We are saddened to hear of his passing. We still talk of Dustin and Brian McGuire during the swimming days. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

November 19, 2010

Karen and Dennis,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this sad time. I cannot imagine the pain it has brought you. I hope with the passing of time the fond memories you have of Dustin will help ease your sorrow.

Respectfully,
Scotti Lata

Andrew Yurack

November 19, 2010

Staci, Family and all his friends,
I just wanted to extend my deepest sympathies for your loss. I don’t ever remember seeing Dustin without a smile on his face and that is something important to take with you forever. I am so very sorry for your loss.

November 19, 2010

I heard of your loss through Dan Lucia. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Curley family and those many people who were close to Dustin. Godspeed from The Woodlands, Texas. Doug Sarant

Cody Browning

November 18, 2010

We are Christina's grandparents, when she was out here last month she told us Dustin is "the one". We're so sorry that he is gone. He must have been a wonderful person. It's so true, "Dying is easy, being left behind is what's hard". Our hearts ache for all of you. Cody & Sharon Browning, Tucson, Az

Tara Putnam

November 18, 2010

My heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to the Curley family. I never had the pleasure to meet Dustin, but just reading everyone's words, its easy to see he was an amazing person. "Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are OK." -Unknown

Jillian Harris

November 18, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss, there are no words to express how much my heart aches for you all.

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family in this tough time.

November 18, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Curley family. You are so loved and my heart breaks when I think of the sorrow you are having to endure. Please know that Dustin will be your angel that will watch over you all.

Love,
Richard and Melissa Collins

Erin Curley

November 18, 2010

Dusin, I love you so much. I know that you'll be watching down on me though with Grammy, Papa, and other relatives. I know we didn't see each other too often, but the memories we did share I will cherish. You will be forever missed, and forever in my heart. I love you cousin.

Erin Curley

November 18, 2010

Dustin, I love you so much. I'll miss you and I know that your watching down on me and the rest of our huge Curley family with Grammy, Papa, and all our other relatives. I wish I could've seen you more than I had, but the memories we did share I will cherish. I love you cousin.

The Baracchi Family

November 18, 2010

Our sincere condolences to Dennis, Karen, and to the family. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

November 18, 2010

Dear Dennis, Karen, Stacie & Shannon,
Although I haven't seen Dustin since he was much younger he became such a wonderful young man with so many accomplishments. Though no words can ease the pain of loosing him at such a young age please know that during this difficult time others are thinking of all of you and sharing your sorrow.
My heartfelt sympathy to the whole family.
Janet(Barone)Snarski

Judy & Steve McGuire

November 18, 2010

our deepest sympathy for your whole family. We will always have some great memories of Dustin and Brian, swimming and snowboarding and just hanging out together. We are thankful that we got to know him and so very sorry for your loss. Our prayers will be with you for healing. Dustin will always be near you - your angel.

Jacqueline Benson

November 18, 2010

My prayers and sorrow go out to my entire extended family including my sister, Jennie and Danny Curley, and to Dennis & Karen, Stacie and Shannon over Dustin's death. I remember him as a little boy toddling around my own children. He grew up to be such an inspirational, intelligent boy with so much to offer the world. I hope you can gain some comfort from that. To my nieces and nephews, Caity, Danny Ruffin, J.P. and Erin, Shawna, Sarah, and Shaela,I love you guys all so much and feel your pain in my heart. Love, Jackie

Sharon Leaska

November 18, 2010

Our sincere condolences to the Curley family. The first time we met Dustin was when he was passing out flyers for odd jobs last Easter. I said to my husband there is something special about that guy and we need to take a flyer. Well, Dustin worked for Leaska Construction for a short time before leaving for his training and all we can say is that he was a true assest both professionally and personally. He was so enthusiastic about learning everything he could regarding construction and didn't care how menial the task was, he did everything to his best of his ability and was a true pleasure to have around. We enjoyed his company and our hearts are so sad for you all, I wish we could have known him longer and will always keep him in our prayers. Mike, Sharon, Taylor & Micalea Leaska

Brian McGuire

November 18, 2010

My condolences go out to the entire Curley family. I knew Dustin very well growing up and hadn't really stayed in contact but he was a great person and will be missed alot in this world. I remember him making every time we were swiming, waiting for races, or just hanging out a memorable one and I will never forget him.

Bill Coleman

November 18, 2010

Dear Dennis and Family:
There are no words that I can write that can ease your pain at this most difficult time. Please know that Dustin and your entire family will be in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this most trying period. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Curley and McLean families, as well as Dustin's many dear friends and cousins. Take care.
Bill and Anne Coleman

George & Kerry Lazarus

November 17, 2010

With deepest sympathy to the Curley and McLean Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Marcy Slye

November 17, 2010

To the Curley Family - Dustin was an amazing gifted man. His smile and shining eyes will forever remain in my heart. I wish peace and loving memories for you. He will fly among the angels and watch over you.
Fondly,
Marcy Galinsky-Slye
River Street Autism Program

Kim Maher

November 17, 2010

Sincere sympathy to family & friends.

Mark & Tricia Bratter

November 17, 2010

Dennis and family,
May it bring you comfort to know that nothing can diminish the wonderful ways your son/brother touched your life... The love and memories you shared will remain with you forever.
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers

Leo Maheux

November 17, 2010

I did not know Dustin. I am also a member of the 104th as is my son. Please accept my deepest, heartfelt condolences for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Caity Curley

November 16, 2010

Dustin, you were an incredible and beautiful person and cousin. I only wish your time here could have been longer. You will be forever missed and remembered as an extremely funny, fun loving, laid back person. I know you would want everyone to smile instead of cry, so I'm going to try and smile for you. Miss you and love you. Rest in peace Dustin. Love, Caity

Mary LaMesa

November 16, 2010

My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Dustin when he came to our camp in the Adirondacks to White Water Raft. He was such a pleasure to be around and we loved his sense of humor. We are traveling and will not be able to attend the service. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time and & we are so sorry for your loss. May God Bless You.
With Love, Steve, Mary LaMesa & Family

Dan Curley

November 16, 2010

Dustin you were one of my best friends and one of the better people I new in my life, for the 23 years that ive known you Ive never seen you do anyone wrong. I only wish that we could of shared our memories for another 50 years.you will never be forgotten and never be missed, because you will always be with us in our hearts and soul, looking over us just like the rest of the departed in our family. I love you and hope your doing well up there with the rest of the curley clan. RIP

Chris & Eileen Melley

November 16, 2010

May Peace be with you all and be strong,
like Dustin--a fine young man.
Chris & Eileen and family.

November 16, 2010

Your in my thoughts and prayers. I think of you often, and pray for all of you. My love forever...Aunt Marianne

Carmon Funeral Homes, Inc.

November 16, 2010

With deepest sympathy during your time of mourning.

Tim Monsonis

November 16, 2010

Dusta-Dust, I love you and I'm going to miss you. We have so many memories together. From the playground in elementary school through college, you were with me every step of the way. I couldn't have asked for a better roommate through college. You were always there to make me laugh and to ponder life's deepest issues with. You were a great friend and I love you like a brother. My wedding will not be the same without you next to me, but I know you're in a better place right now. Life on earth is short for all of us, but eternal life is forever. I know that when we reunite in Heaven, we will pick up where we left off. Until then, know that you'll always be with me.

"You do not realise now what I am doing, but later you will understand" -John 13:7

November 16, 2010

Dennis and Family,
My heart go out to you. I am so sorry for your loss. You're all in my prayers.
Love, Sarah

JP Curley

November 16, 2010

Dustin, I am going to go miss you cousin. Even though in our later years I did not get to see you as often as I now wish I could, I always looked up to you. I remember the days at Gram and Papa's with all the cousins and all the fun we had. My heart hurts for you and you will be deeply missed. I love you cuz.

November 16, 2010

How very sad to have lost such a wonderful young man.My heart goes out to the Curley & McLean Families.I worked with Eileen Curley in Sp.Ed.and know how she loves her family.I will add Dustin to my prayers. Sincerely,Ann Mangiagli

November 16, 2010

When Chris told me about Dustin,My heart was sadded. My thoughts are with Dustin and family. God bless Joe Sponzo

Nikki Albert

November 16, 2010

Dustin,
Your time here on earth has made a difference in the lives of many. After meeting Tim, I did have the blessing of being introduced to you and getting to know you... I could only wish to have spent more time around you! Thank you for always being a true friend to Tim, as your relationship had such a positive impact on his life and always will. We were so excited to have you standing beside us on our big day and I know no matter what - you will be right there with us. Your family and friends fill my prayers and thoughts during this time. Watch over them and comfort their hearts until the day you all meet again in Heaven. xoxo

Nancy LeMay

November 16, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of sorrow.

STEPHANIE DOPP

November 16, 2010

Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for the loss of such a wonderful young man with such a bright future. It feels like not long ago he was walking down the isle with Stacie as ring bearer in our wedding. You are all in our thoughts and prayers everyday...

Tiffany & Jeff Nunes, Nunes Quality Plumbing and Heating LLC

November 16, 2010

Being the parents of three boys ourselves, our heartfelt sympathy is with the family at this time. We didn't know Dustin, but he sounded like a very accomplished young man -- a tribute to you as parents and family ties. It takes a village...

November 16, 2010

To a beautiful nephew and friend, we will miss you Dustin.

William Curley and Dorothy Mayoli

November 16, 2010

Dustin, I didn't know you, but I know your dad and he was so proud of you. Your time on earth was valuable to so many people. Enjoy Heaven and we'll see you there..

Rich & Trudi Albert

November 16, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

November 16, 2010

May God comfort the grieving hearts of your family and friends. Our deepest sympathies.

Judy Kozyra and Tom Ferrari

Jennie Curley

November 16, 2010

Your light will shine forever - Dan, Jen & Curley Cousins

November 16, 2010

Dear Dennis,Karen,Stacie & Shannon ~
Words can't express the heartfelt sorrow that we all are feeling. To loose a child has to be unbearable but please know that there are many that are here for you and pray you'll get through this.
We hope in time your sadness lessens and you'll be able to smile & laugh as you talk about the many memories you've shared with Dustin. We did not know Dustin but he does carry the McLean/Curley gene so what more can I say other than he must have been one remarkable young man.
Love,
Michael & Sheila Gasper

Gary & June Turrel

November 16, 2010

To an Amazing and Beautiful young man! Dustin you will be in our hearts and our minds forever. We will watch over your loving family now and for a very long time to come.
Love, Gary & June Turrel "PEACE"

James and Melissa Dopp

November 16, 2010

There are no words to say that can begin to make sense of this unbelievable and overwhelming loss of such a beautiful young man. We can only have the Faith that God called him home for a reason we may never understand. Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Curley family.

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