Curt Wilson

passed away peacefully at his home in Carlotta on Sunday, December 5th. He was born on November 1st, 1918 in Eureka to George and Maggie Wilson. He had two sisters and five brothers. Curt is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Phyllis Wilson; children Marc and April Wilson, Tim Wilson, Lani and Harry Dibble; his grandchildren, Michael and Michelle Wilson, Jennifer and Matt Stevens, Lindsi and Ryan Reback, Joseph Wilson, Katelyn Dibble and Joseph Dell Era; his great grandchildren: Jordan Stevens, Cameron Wilson, Brenna Stevens, Mikenna Reback, Piper Stevens, Gavin Wilson, Hunter Reback and Noah Reback. He was also grandpa to Lina, Cristina, Malena, Alicia, Carlos, Xavier, and Serena. Curt loved his family and the Carlotta community where he made his home for the last 64 years. Curt loved camping, swimming, traveling, and sports. He played basketball and tennis in college and loved watching his kids and grandchildren play sports. Curt especially loved watching the San Francisco Giants. Being an avid fan of the Giants he was thrilled when they won the World Series this year on his 92nd birthday. Curt was a graduate of Humboldt State University where he majored in Education. He found his first teaching job at Weitchpec in 1941. Curt loved the community and was honored when the Weitchpec School Board invited him to teach a second year; this was an invitation they had not previously extended. Although he would have loved to continue teaching, World War II left him enlisting in the Navy. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant JG and served on the U.S.S. Storms. After the war in 1946 he returned to teaching at Cuddeback Elementary School where he was a teaching principal at the old two-story schoolhouse. In 1958 under Curt's supervision, Cuddeback moved into a new school. As principal, Curt wore many different hats. He taught, coached and helped out families and kids with whatever they needed. Curt was actively involved in school programs like art, music and dancing. In 1966, after 21 years at Cuddeback School, Curt accepted a job as principal at Alice Birney School in Eureka. Under his leadership Alice Birney was selected as a model school by the California State Department of Education and a film was made describing their successful programs. He felt passionate about education and the inclusion and success of all children. In 1982 Curt decided that after a long and fulfilling life in education, it was time to retire and spend more time with his family. However, retirement didn't mean an end to Curt's involvement in education; he became a trustee on the Cuddeback School Board and served for 25 years. He also became a supervisor of student teachers for Humboldt State University. Curt supervised over 90 student teachers, many of which are now teaching in schools throughout Humboldt County. Curt was the recipient of many honors and awards during his more than 40 years of service to students in Humboldt County including the Jean Olson Career Achievement Award in May of 2002 and the dedication of the Cuddeback Elementary School playground and gymnasium in February 2006. Curt's achievements and awards were many but his family believes his greatest accomplishment was marrying Phyllis. Together they have lived their lives every day with kindness, acceptance and humor. They are always willing to lend a hand, quick to smile and slow to judge. Phyllis has always been Curt's best friend. She has been the quiet stability and encouragement that enabled him to pursue a successful career. Together they've raised a close and compassionate family. They've instilled in us a love for others, especially for kids. They encouraged us to stand up for what we believe in and work hard towards the things we feel passionate about. Most importantly they've taught us how to enjoy life and have fun. There will be a celebration of life for Curt in the Spring. Donations can be made to the Curt Wilson Scholarship Fund, Cuddeback School 300 Wilder Road, CA 95528 or to the Humboldt Area Foundation 373 Indianola Road, Bayside, CA, 95524. Arrangements are under the direction of Goble's Fortuna Mortuary, Fortuna, Ca. Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.