Obituary of Richard W. Curtis

Richard W. Curtis, 73, passed peacefully on February 23, 2017 at the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain, CT. He was the husband of Claudia (German) (Green) Curtis. Richard was born on February 25, 1943 in Waterbury, CT., the son of the late William and Eleanor (Benedict) Curtis. He spent most of his life as a Connecticut resident. His early years were spent growing up in Waterbury. In 1965 he moved to Cheshire, where he lived for 20 years. He then moved to Prospect where he resided until retiring to Spring Hill, Florida in 2000. Dick Curtis, as he was known in the business world, had a lifelong career with Owens Corning in sales and later in management. He was acknowledged as the roofing expert to go to throughout his long career in New England. Those who had business dealings with him quickly became his friends. He was indeed the most affable human being you would ever meet. Rich was a gentle man, kind and thoughtful. His son once told him “Dad you are the man everyone likes.” Many considered him to be the Pied Piper. Children were drawn to him, both in his early years when his son and daughter were young, as well as in his later years. As his family expanded with stepchildren and grandchildren his ability to draw all to him continued. He had room in his heart for everyone and took the time to listen when needed and to have fun when called for. He so enjoyed gatherings with friends and family. He loved sports of any kind, both as a spectator watching his children and grandchildren as well as a participant. Golf, biking and kayaking were high on the activity list. He was an avid reader and would often refer to the hundreds of books on his Kindle with enthusiasm. Richard was also fearless when it came to a political debate. He will be lovingly remembered for his great sense of humor, his kind heart, his gentle manner, his genuine concern and his loyalty. He was a gift to many. In addition to his wife Claudia, Richard is survived by his devoted daughter Deborah (Ubertalli) Curtis and her children Luke, Sierra and Sam Ubertalli of Cheshire CT; Stepdaughters Claudia (Green) (Rossi) Deemer (husband Michael) of Tampa FL; Kate (Green) Bryan (husband Stacy) of Pace FL.; stepson Brian Green (partner Lina Rocha) of Waterbury Ct. In addition Jack and Jeremy Rossi; Aidan, Patrick and Shannon Bryan; and Emily and Katie Green will miss Pop-Pop. Richard is also survived by his former wife and friend MaryEllen (Deconinck) Curtis. Richard was predeceased by his beloved son, Thomas B. Curtis in 2009. Friends are invited to join in a celebration of life for Richard to be hosted on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 11:45 A.M. at The Waverly Inn at 286 Maple Ave, Cheshire, CT. To honor his memory we will do as he did and as he wished us to do….. BE KIND, ENJOY LIFE AND LIVE IT FULLY