Russell Charles Curnutt

RUSSELL CHARLES CURNUTT
June 19, 1934 ~ April 1, 2014

Russell C. Curnutt passed away at home on April 1, 2014 following a short illness. Mr. Curnutt was born on June 19, 1934 in Victoria, BC, Canada. He was the son on Charles and Mary Curnutt, late of Garibaldi, Oregon. In 1955,he married Grace (Betsy) Cody and they remained a devoted couple for 58 years.

Russell lived most of his life in Garibaldi, Oregon but moved to Portland Oregon, then to Washougal Washington. His last ten years were lived in Vancouver, Washington.

Russell operated American Shingle Co. in Garibaldi for many years, before economic factors forced its removal, first to Tillamook, then Warrenton, Oregon and thence to Randall, Washington and finally to Longview, Washington. A major stroke struck him on September 9, 1999, which ended his shingle mill career, leaving him a left-side hemiplegic.

While living in Garibaldi, Curnutt served the city as its mayor, being reelected for seven consecutive terms plus four later years.

In Portland, Curnutt's interest in music led to his appearance in many dinner shows at Jasmine Tree Restaurant, until the stroke left him in a wheelchair and with an inability to recall song lyrics. He continued interest in the Cabaret Magnifique, the theater company organized by Jim Chan at the Jasmine Tree, attending all performances until the closure of the restaurant.

In late March, Mr Curnutt contracted a respiratory illness, including frequent coughing, and turning into pneumonia. It was his wish to remain at home rather than being taken to a hospital.

Russell is survived by his wife, Grace; sons, Charles and Bryan; daughter, Victoria (Vicki); and grandchildren, Willy and Kelsey Curnutt.

A memorial service is planned for 3 p.m., Sunday, April 13, at the Seventh-day Adventist school in Tillamook, Oregon.
Please sign his Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.