Jacob William "Bill" Curtis

Jacob William (Bill) CURTIS Sculptor, architect, teacher, author, scholar, world traveler, bon vivant, Bill spent his last days at home in his beautiful sun-filled room overlooking the water and city. He died peacefully on Sunday from lymphoma. Bill was born on May 21, 1926 and raised in Seattle. He served in the Army during WWII, and then attended UW School of Architecture, and there, taught design, theory, and South Asian architecture for 25 years. Bill also earned an MA in Sanskrit from UW. Bill and his wife, Patricia Emmons, have shared an architecture practice, Curtis and Emmons Architects, for 26 years. Bill never retired from practicing architecture, and continued to inspire Pat with ideas until a few days before he died. Bill's awareness of the inherent beauty of the world infused every piece of art, architecture, and writing that he so loved creating. Bill had a passion for travel, and for understanding another point of view as a bridge to peace. His heart was drawn to India. He was awarded Fulbright and AIS scholarships for two separate years of study. Bill and Pat returned to India many times to drink in the culture, philosophy, and people. Bill's beautiful smile, gentle affection, and thoughtful intellect kindled the many friendships that he sustained. Bill loved opera, dance, and chamber music. He was also a skilled cook, and his artful pizzas and extensive Indian meals will be greatly missed. Bill loved taking long walks with his dogs, Saraswati and Shiva, and reading by the fire with his cat, Bella, in his lap. His greatest joy was in working, traveling, being best friends with, and loving his wife, Pat. Bill's ability to be ageless and live life to its fullest was an inspiration to many, and we will so miss such beauty. Bill is mourned by his wife, Patricia Emmons; sons, Lynn Curtis & Larry Curtis; siblings, Janet McPhillips and Jack Curtis; and many loving friends. Per Bill's wish, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of Bill's favorite charities: www.Cry.org or www.DoctorsWithoutBorders.org.