Richard L. Curtis

Richard Lee Curtis "Dick or Dickster" 69 of Johannesburg passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018 in Gaylord. Born on March 14, 1948 in Sumner, Dick was the son of Alvin Jr. and Betty (Jacques) Curtis.

He began working at Oldsmobile at the age of 19.  He retired after 30 years of service in Skilled Trades from General Motors, Plant II Lansing MI retiring to Johannesburg. He was a talented trumpet player and musician who played in a wide variety of bands.  He enjoyed sharing his love of music with others, giving music lessons to students, jamming with his band mates and entertaining family & friends with his performances.  Dick began taking pilot lessons in the late 1970's earning a private pilot’s license.  He enjoyed building & flying model airplanes, hunting, riding motorcycles & snowmobiling.

He was proud to be a Mason, as he put a great amount of time, energy and effort into several lodges throughout the years. He was a Jr. Warden, Free & Accepted Masons of MI Blue Lodge #596, Mio, past High Priest, Royal Arch Masons of Michigan, Past Trice Illustrious Pastor, Counsel of Royal & Select Masters of Michigan, Past Eminent Commander, Cheboygan Commander #50, Knights Templar of Michigan, Senior Warden, AMD Allied Masonic Degrees, and Prellot York Rite College #65.

He is survived by his daughter, Julie (Jason) Sitzema of Central Lake; granddaughter, Asya Sitzema; brother, Larry (Gail) Curtis of Sumner; nephew, Brian (Traci Davidson) Curtis of Alma; great nephews, Brian Jr. & Brody Curtis; a dear friend, Janet Foran and several extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin Jr. and Betty Curtis; and grandparents, Orville & Cora Irene Jacques.

The family will be having a private memorial service. There will also be a Masonic Memorial Service at Blue Lodge in Mio at a later date.

Please share you memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com