I was one of Curt's charges in the young mens organization of the Phx 24th ward.  Curt is one I've remembered all my life (along with Dave Banbury, Jerry Willis, Adam Carlini,  Brad White, and Bob Ziegler).     Nothing but good memories.

I went to Ricks College in Idaho after a mission and never came home much, so the only occasions I had to see Curt were at the odd wedding or passing of one of my family members whom Curt also knew.  I enjoyed the times we had to reconnect.

I remember Jodi and Katelin as little girls... I dont think Jodi was older than 5 or 6 years old when I left on mission and and then to school.  I remember Curt loved his family.

I remember Curt recruitng a few of us young men to go to Sky Harbor to welcome Patti back from a trip she took.  I remember going on a ski trip to Sunrise.  Lots of memories (but I don't remember many of them)

I mostly remember Curt just as a good hearted, caring, loving leader who I was confident I could look to for help or advice when needed.

My sadness at his passing is tempered with memory of his smile, laugh, and care for me as a young man learning of life.

Joel Pearson

I first met Curty in 1967 as a boy when we moved to Phoenix. I had instant friends in the 10th ward with the likes of Curty, Dave, Jeff, Greg, Jay, and Janet. I moved up north in 1972 but was blessed to reconnect after our missions. 

I have many fond memories with Curty and the gang while camping, going to Scott’s cabin, YSA activities, weddings, basketball, and who could forget our glorious softball days.

I’m not sure if I can ever forgive him for not coming to my rescue when during a softball game, I was jumped by three of the opposing team members after trying to save Jeff from being pushed around. Our entire team was in the middle of the mix. Jay nearly got knocked out. After the dust cleared, with jerseys torn, and a few bumps and bruises inflicted, they broke it up. I said to Curty, “Where were you? You’re the biggest guy on our team”? He just laughed and said I thought you were doing just fine on your own, so I stayed in the dugout”. We all had a good laugh at my expense.

One interesting thing about Curty was no matter how long it had been since I’d last seen him, we could get back in step with our friendship and conversations as if we had never skipped a beat.

That ridiculous laugh of his was infectious. He had me in tears on more than one occasion. As fun and goofy as he was though he also had a very sincere and warm heart. He cared about the 1 in 99. He made people feel included and important. He had a passion for helping young men become better. 

Although I didn’t have the opportunity to get to know his girls growing up, I heard about them every time I saw him. I know how he felt about you. He adores the three of you and you mean the world to him and those grandkids? Oh my gosh, they are the cat's pajamas as far as he’s concerned.

Curty is my friend. I say “IS” because our friendship is not a thing of the past. Curty still lives on, and I know I’ll see him again. Life does not start when we are born, and it doesn’t end when we die. It’s as if he’s just in the next room with other friends, his folks, Cal, and others who have preceded him to the other side and have now welcomed him with open arms to a grand reunion. 

I look forward to seeing my pal again someday. Until then, you may catch me periodically smiling or suddenly laughing out loud and shaking my head as I recall some of the shenanigans we pulled in our younger years.

My condolences to everyone who loves him. Especially his family.

Until we meet again dear brother, save me a seat.

Ban

So so sorry Ellen. My prayers are with you and your family

Rest well our friend! Curt we loved you so much!!! Thanks for all the camping and fishing trips, adventures, and always being available and willing to help! You were a great support to Brian with all the Scout trainings we did!! We played a lot of softball and barely avoided a lot of trouble over the years. We will miss you so much!!

Brian and Debbie