Scott Knox Cursey lived a life marked by curiosity, service, and an unmistakable spirit that made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him. Scott grew up in Ripon and graduated from Ripon High School in 1989. He began his journey at Modesto Junior College before choosing to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy in 1991. Based in San Diego, California, his time in the Navy serving onboard the USS Reasoner, instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, resilience, adventure and purpose—qualities that shaped every chapter of his life. After his honorable discharge, Scott followed his passion for food and craftsmanship, graduating from the California Culinary School in San Francisco. He continued his education at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo and later transferred to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, graduating in 2007.

Scott went on to build a respected career in the financial lending industry, and eventually joined Mid Coast Capital, Inc. There, he met business owner Vince Crooks of San Luis Obispo, with whom he formed a deep lasting partnership and friendship. Scott served as Vice President, becoming known as a seasoned professional in private money lending and project development. He was trusted for his expertise, steady leadership, and ability to guide real estate projects to successful completion.

While living in San Luis Obispo, Scott met the love of his life, Nicole, a savvy businesswoman. With his trademark charm, humor, and persistence, Scott found every excuse to stop by Nicole’s bagel shop, hoping to catch even a few minutes of her attention. In 2010, that persistent spark led them to their wedding in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where Scott’s dream of building a life with Nicole became a beautiful reality. In 2012, they welcomed their son, Reef, who quickly became Scott’s greatest pride.

Scott and Nicole shared a love for the Hawaiian Islands, spending many vacations exploring beaches, trails, and island culture. Drawn by the ocean and the lifestyle that suited their souls, they eventually settled on the Big Island of Hawaii. Scott spent his final days on the island he called home, surrounded by his family and special friends, and comforted by knowing he would soon be meeting his Lord and Savior in Heaven and finding peace from his courageous and relentless battle with cancer.

Scott will be remembered for his sharp wit and ability to make people laugh, his deep passion for the ocean and surfing, and his lifelong devotion to the Los Angeles Dodgers – a team he cheered for with unwavering loyalty. True to his unconventional and gregarious spirit, Scott lived boldly, loved deeply, and left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

Scott is survived by his wife, Nicole Cursey; his son, Reef Cursey and Cheeseburger, his sweet family dog who stayed by his side on the toughest of days; his mother, Bonnie Cursey; his sister, Holly Cursey; and his nieces, Jyllian Searcy and Rylee Searcy. He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Knox Cursey, and by his mother in law, Sarah Seng.

A celebration of Scott’s life are being planned for the spring of 2026, with gatherings on both the Island of Hawaii and in Ripon, California, so that all who loved him may honor his memory.

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