Curtis (Curt) Wayne Konkler

Curtis Wayne Konkler, 73, of Urbandale, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at the Kavanagh Hospice House, surrounded by the two people he loved most, his loving wife Bev and son Donavon.

Born on July 27, 1951, in Oakes, North Dakota, Curt lived a life marked by service, generosity, and quiet strength. After high school, he joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country and shaping the steady, dependable man so many came to admire.

Curt shared over 54 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Bev—a lifelong partnership rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Though they never had biological children, Curt and Bev’s hearts were full. Through the Big Brother Big Sister program, they met Donavon Sundquist, who quickly became family. Their bond was so deep that they were in the process of formally adopting him in adulthood—a testament to the love they chose and nurtured every day.

Curt was a proud and playful grandfather to Theo, Hudson, Declan, and Shirley Sundquist. Whether at the lake in Waubun, Minnesota, or tinkering in his shop, Curt was always ready with a fishing pole, a tool in hand, or a smile that made everyone feel welcome. He found joy in the outdoors, spent countless hours hunting and fishing, and had a natural talent for woodworking that brought beauty and utility to everyday life.

A lifelong fan of John Wayne, Curt admired the Duke’s grit, quiet courage, and strong sense of right and wrong—qualities he himself lived by. Much like his hero, Curt didn’t need many words to make an impression. His actions spoke volumes.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Bev; his son, Donavon (Allison) Sundquist; and his grandchildren, Theo, Hudson, Declan, and Shirley. He is also survived by his siblings Jeanne, Steve, Patricia, and Victoria. Curt was preceded in death by his father and mother, Harold & Marlys Konkler.

A Visitation and Memorial Service will held at Caldwell Parish Funeral Home on Monday June 30th, 2025 beginning at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Curt’s memory may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters, a cause that helped build the family he cherished most.

Curt’s warmth, quiet strength, and steady love will remain in the hearts of those who knew him—and, like a John Wayne classic, his story will live on.

“Courage is being scared to death... and saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne