Paul Richard Curtis

1966 - 2025

Paul Richard Curtis

July 6, 1966 - March 25, 2025

State College, Pennsylvania - Paul Richard Curtis, passed away on March 25, 2025, in State College, Pennsylvania at the age of 58. Born on July 6, 1966, in Niagara Falls, New York, Paul was the son of Richard "Dick" Curtis and Sarah Jane (Renwick) Curtis.

Paul is preceded in death by his father Richard "Dick" Curtis and is survived by his mother, Sarah Jane (Renwick) Curtis of Clinton, SC and his sister, Maureen Curtis Lewis of Greenwood, SC, two God daughters Madison Kellogg and Mircea Wagner all of whom he cherished deeply. Paul is survived by countless aunts, uncles, and cousins in the United States, Canada and Ireland. Paul had thousands of friends worldwide that he cherished including his most cherished and best friends Christopher Gawryla and Thomas Goyne. Paul's legacy of kindness, generosity, and laughter will continue to live on through the stories and memories shared by those who loved him.

Paul graduated from Philipsburg-Osceola High School in 1984, laying the foundation of lifelong friendships. He began his work at Penn State in 1986 with Physical Plant and transferred to the athletic department in 1992 where he eventually moved onto the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew and rose to group leader where he worked until his retirement on June 4, 2021. While working at the university Paul developed lifelong friendships, serving not only as a friend but also as a mentor to countless students, helping them network, find internships/jobs with professional sports teams and golf courses around the country. His dedication and pride in his role as group leader for the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew shone in his work, ensuring that the stadium was more than just a venue for events, but a welcoming environment for all who visited.

In retirement Paul worked at W.C. Clarke's Cheese Shoppe where he continued his deep connections and conversations. Bill, Tony, Mark and the rest of the guys became great friends in his transition into retirement. Paul dedicated himself to staying active through lifting weights, running, or simply enjoying a walk on a crisp morning. He also enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams including Penn State (football, wrestling, Rugby, Softball) and the Pittsburgh Steelers. His commitment to sports and physical well-being was matched only by his commitment to meaningful conversations. Paul had a rare talent for heart-to-heart talks, providing guidance and wisdom even when the truth was difficult to hear. This combination of physical and emotional strength was a cornerstone of his character.

Paul's voice resonated at local and national conferences where he spoke and shared his insights and experiences with enthusiasm and authenticity. It was in these moments that Paul's gift for communication, coupled with his genuine desire to connect with others, truly shined.

Those who knew Paul would describe him as a man who could easily bring a smile to your face, offer a helping hand without a second thought, and make anyone feel like a friend. His sense of humor was a light in any room.

In accordance with his nature of making a genuine connection with those around him, Paul's life will be honored and remembered in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him. His laughter, his wisdom, and his unwavering spirit of giving will be the guiding lights we carry forward.

Rest in peace, Paul. Your warmth, your humor, and your kindness will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 pm on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College, PA.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Koch Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers please send donations in Paul's name to pennstaterugbyfoundation.org/donate and/or contact paulcurtisscholarship@gmail.com for more information about a scholarship to be set up in his memory.