Patrick Joseph Curtis

Patrick Joseph Curtis, age 85, of Grand Rapids, passed away Monday, April 7, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Cynthia Curtis; children, Laura Schlundt Bodien (John), Ken Curtis (Michelle), Matthew Curtis (Kimberly); grandchildren, Megan Adams (Jake), Ryan Curtis; brother, Paul Curtis (Katie); sister, Norma Jean Fitzgerald; brother-in-law, Leonard Kowalski (Emily); several nieces and nephews; and his dog “and favorite child”, Charlie.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mabel Curtis; in-laws, Leonard and Regina Kowalski; sisters, Darlene DeGutis, Sharon Poirier; and brother, Robert Curtis.

Patrick was born in Detroit, MI and raised in Roseville, MI. He graduated from Roseville High School in 1959. He served in the United States Navy from 1959-1963, in the Pacific Ocean on the USS Razorback (SS-394) as the submarine’s Helmsman. Patrick received advanced specific technology education while working with two technology firms. He worked at Control Data as a Computer Engineer from the mid-1960s to the late 1970s, and at Booth Newspapers as a Computer Engineer from the late 1970s to 2000, when he retired.

In retirement, he was a substitute teacher for Forest Hills Public Schools and District Sports Event Coordinator, where he helped run State Track Meets. He was actively involved in Saint Roberts Church as a lead usher and in other volunteer positions.

Patrick enjoyed golf, windsurfing on Elk Lake and woodworking. He made furniture and helped all three kids remodel their homes. He loved being outside, landscaping and walking his dog, Charlie. Cynthia and Pat enjoyed traveling to Ohio to spend time with their grandchildren whenever possible. He also attended numerous concerts and supported Laura’s music ventures. Patrick started the Forest Hills Youth Wrestling program with other parents in the community in the late 1970s when the family moved from Ann Arbor to Grand Rapids. He ran the program and tournaments while coaching the youth athletes and his boys. At that time, he designed a computer program to track wrestling statistics. He loved science fiction/fantasy books and movies. Those that knew him would describe him as loving, encouraging, and a true gentleman. But most importantly and evident through the years, he loved his devoted wife, Cynthia.

Visitation will be held Monday, April 14, 2025, from 5-8 pm at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with Rosary Service at 7:30 pm. 10:00am Tuesday, April 15, 2025, visitation with 11:00am Mass of Christian Burial at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, MI 49301. Rev. Logan Weber presiding. Interment Cascade Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice, 625 Kenmoor Ave., SE Suite 115, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 or Kids Food Basket, 1300 Plymouth Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.