CURTIS, George Burt

The Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, Arizona Wednesday, January 21, 2015 George Burt Curtis, 89, was born Oct. 29, 1925, to Fred and Helen Curtis in Cripple Creek, Colo., and was called to his maker on Jan. 15, 2015. George was the second oldest of seven children and grew up in Park County, Colo. After high school. George spent time ranching before being called to duty in the US Navy on Feb. 15, 1944, during World War II. He trained at Farragut, Idaho, and served in the Pacific Theater with the 7th Fleet, Second Division, aboard the USS GEN. M. L. Hersey (AP-148), taking part in the invasion of the Philippines. Honorably discharged on April 20, 1946, his decorations include the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon, Philippine Liberation, Good Conduct Citation, and the Victory Medal. Upon completion of his US Navy service, George moved to Hooper, Colo., where he pursued a career working with children at the Sangre De Cristo school district, retiring in 1984. He then relocated to Congress, Ariz., spending his retired days as an avid gold prospector. In his final years he returned to his home state of Colorado to finish his days with his family and many friends. George was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Helen Curtis, and brother Donald (Sue) Curtis. George is survived by his wife Margaret Curtis; children Larry Curtis, and Russell (Judy) Curtis; stepchildren Gloria (Orlando)Mestas and Doug (Susan) Thorpe; his grandchildren, Heather, Bill (Ruth), Jordan and John. George also had many great-grandchildren whom he held close to his heart. Services to be at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Rogers Family Mortuary, Alamosa Colo., www.rogersfunerals.com