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HUGH JEFFERSON CURTIS Obituary pic

HUGH JEFFERSON CURTIS

Date of Passing: May 09, 2014

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HUGH JEFFERSON CURTIS On May 9, 2014, at the age of 81, Hugh Curtis passed away peacefully with his family by his side. He will be sadly missed by his sons Michael (Sheryl) and Mark (Andrea); grandchildren Caitlin, Matthew and Cole. He was predeceased by his wife of 38 years Joan Curtis (nee McKenzie) in 1998, by his parents Fred and Rosa Curtis, and his sister Margreta Robinson. He is survived by his brother Wilf, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and lifelong friends. Hugh was born and raised in St. Vital, and was a reluctant student until Grade 11 when he attended United College and a spark was ignited. A close circle of friends and inspiring professors set a foundation for a lifelong interest in education and personal development, culminating in his earning a Doctor of Social Work from the University of Utah in 1978. One of his first introductions to the world of social services was working as a Truancy Officer at the Juvenile Court, where he first met Joan. After their courtship and marriage, Hugh worked through Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees, which prepared him for his 36 year career at the Child Guidance Clinic of Winnipeg. He was extremely proud of the work the CGC performed and the friendships he made there have endured. Hugh and Joan settled in Norwood flats in 1962 on Larchwood Place, and spent the next 34 years enjoying the community and the wonderful friendships they established as they raised their family. Hugh had fond memories of summers at Victoria Beach, of regular bridge nights with friends and of family car trips. One of Hugh's most meaningful roles was care giver as Joan battled symptoms of ALS over 11 years, eventually claiming her life soon after Hugh's retirement. He was able to regroup with the assistance of family and wonderful friends, including Janet, Keith and Helen, with whom he was able to realize his dreams of travel. Hugh had many passions over the years; including collecting and reading classic literature, bicycle riding around Norwood, studying the American Civil War; English mysteries, browsing bookstores for new finds and delivering bad puns with a glint in his eye. The family has appreciated the support of many, including: Dr. Ray Singer; the staff of Sturgeon Creek 1; the WRHA Palliative Care Program; and the staff of St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care unit. For those that knew and remember Hugh, a come and go reception to celebrate his life will be held on Tuesday, May 20 between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the St. Charles Golf and Country Club, 100 Country Club Blvd., Winnipeg. Words of remembrance to take place at 5:00 p.m. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of Manitoba or a charity of your choice. GREEN ACRES Funeral Home and Cemetery (204) 222-3241 Condolences may be sent to www.greenacresfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 17, 2014

Condolences & Memories (7 entries)

  • I am deeply saddened by the loss of my former colleague Hugh. Although we did not stay in touch after his retirement, he stayed in my heart as a kind and gentle soul who had a very big impact on me. I truly valued his support and his wisdom and practical common sense. I also respected his integrity and his commitment to those things which were dear to him. It is with a heavy heart that I would like to pass on my sympathy to the family of a very good man. Merika Graham Skirko, Toronto - Posted by: Merika Graham Skirko (former colleague) on: May 22, 2014

  • I had the honour of working with Hugh in the St. Vital School Division No. 6. Hugh was always a caring, compassionate, and capable Area Service Director for the Child Guidance Clinic in St. Vital. He was a wonderful colleague and a friend. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family at this sad time of his passing. - Posted by: Terry Borys (Colleague from St. Vital School Division) on: May 21, 2014

  • When I was growing up Hugh was a much older cousin so I didn't get to know him well, except when he tipped a wagon of bales at the farm in Hartney with me and others underneath it. A few years go we connected again and had several dinners with him and Janet. I was delighted to get to know him better. He was a truly fine man. My deepest condolences to Michael, Mark and families. - Posted by: Ken Thomas (cousin) on: May 20, 2014

  • My sincere condolences to Dr. Hugh Curtis' family. I had the pleasure to work with Dr. Curtis when he was CGC Area Director for St. Vital School Division. His genuine concern for all the students and their families in his care always stood out. It was a privilege to have known him and he leaves a better world behind for having journeyed through it. Rest In Peace. - Posted by: Norbert Philippe (SVSD colleague) on: May 20, 2014

  • Mark, Andrea and families, please accept my sincere condolences on the recent passing of your father. Mark, it seems like yesterday that you left your friends in the north to return to Winnipeg to be closer to your family. It was fun to have met Joan when she visited Yellowknife and although I did not have the opportunity to meet your Dad, I felt I knew your family as you spoke often and fondly of both your parents. You are in my thought and in my heart at this difficult time. - Posted by: Ruth A Robertson (Long time northern friend of Mark, Andrea and Cole) on: May 18, 2014

  • Mark, Michael and families, please accept my condolances in the loss of your dad/grandfather. Your parents were great friends and neighbours. Would run into your dad on Lyndale Drive riding his bicycle and until this day I still miss your mom. Your parents are often mentioned, with great fondness by long time Norwood residents, and of course, we cannot forget Hatu. RIP Hugh. - Posted by: Claudia Beischer (Friend/long-time Norwood Flats neighbour) on: May 17, 2014

  • Loved all the family dinners at the Curtis family home. So many great memories! I remember visiting Utah when Hugh was studying there. A wonderful time. D - Posted by: Anne Oake (Niece) on: May 17, 2014

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