Larry C. Curtis

Larry C. Curtis, 76, passed away surrounded by his loving family early Monday morning, November 8, 2021, at Coulee Medical Center in Grand Coulee, Washington. Larry was born, November 19, 1944, to Charles and Romaine (Russell) Curtis in Colfax, Washington.

At one-year of age Larry went to live with his Aunt and Uncle, Doris and Peter Swanda. He was raised by them until he graduated from Colfax High School in 1963. Larry was a member of the “Bulldogs” Baseball and Basketball teams. Following graduation, Larry went on to attend Eastern Washington State College (now University). Prior to his graduation with a BA Degree in 1969, Larry married Miss Judy Walker on, August 26, 1967, at Ridgeview Assembly of God Church in Spokane, Washington. Larry also served in the Washington National Guard from 1963-1968.

A born teacher who loved not only to educate but more importantly to “inspire” his students; “Mr. Curtis”, “L.C.”, “Pops” touched the lives of many Lake Roosevelt School students from 1969 until his retirement in 2000. His litany of duties during those 31 years included teaching “Art”, “Current World Problems”, “4th Grade Math”, “The Credit Retrieval Program” and his greatest joy (after teaching) …”Coaching Student Athletes”.

Larry participated in numerous activities at the “Grand Coulee Nazarene Church”, “Grand Coulee Senior Center”, “Grand Coulee Art Club”, and “Banks Lake Golf Course.” Always active, Larry loved spending time in the fresh air Golfing, Camping, Fishing and chasing down bargains at garage sales and 2nd Hand Stores. When at home, he enjoyed reading, watching sports and creating art in various mediums; however Larry’s greatest joy and passion was spending time with Judy and their family, and dog Jazzy.

Predeceased by both of his parents and his sisters Ronnie Smith and Helen Mae Larson; and Brothers-in-law Loren Walker and Bud Larson, Larry’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife of 54 years, Judy Curtis; children: Kelly Jo Heinlen (Mark) and K.C. Curtis (Marnie); grandchildren: Jacob Morasch (Jenn), Kaitlin Heinlen, Victoria Heinlen, Alexis Curtis (Daniel) and Hayden Curtis; great-grandchild: Dot Momoko Robinson; siblings: Shannon Goodwin, Nikki Lettermaier, Tamara Curtis, Todd Curtis and Edward Knott; cousins: Christi DeKraai and Jeannine Henley; Sister-in-law Margarete Walker; nephews Robert and Roger Walker and Aaron Smith (Annie) as well as numerous other cousins, nephews and nieces.

A memorial service will be held for Larry at the Grand Coulee Nazarene Church at 11:00am, Saturday, November 20th, 2021. A family burial will take place in Hay, Washington at a later date.

Persons who wish may make a donation in Larry’s memory may donate to “Grand Coulee Church of the Nazarene”, 45925 WA-174, Grand Coulee, WA 99133, “Children’s Hospital“, Seattle, WA, or “Special Olympics”, Spokane, WA.

Strate Funeral Home is assisting Larry’s family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.stratefuneral.com.