Raymond Curtis

RAYMOND W. CURTIS IDAHO FALLS, ID -- Raymond W. Curtis, 67, passed away at his home from complications of on-going health problems on April 6, 2009. He was born on March 13, 1942 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin to Walter and Ione Curtis. He was their only child for 3 minutes - until the arrival of his twin brother. He began working at a very young age, helping his father and his uncle build houses, emptying semi trucks and various other odd jobs. He was the youngest route/salesman Coca Cola had hired when he was still in high school. Ray held a myriad of jobs which included selling insurance, owning a restaurant, driving school bus, chef for a supper club and Vice-President of Marketing for U-Haul’s Mid-western division before he found his niche in long-haul truck driving. He was an owner-operator for a number of years. His main lease was with Anderson Trucking Service. He eventually settled in Idaho and drove for Doug Andrus Distributing for 13 years. While with Doug Andrus, he served as Chairman of the Driver’s Committee representing other drivers to promote a successful partnership and improved communication between the drivers and management. His final job was as a salesman selling used trucks that were taken off the fleet. In the 35 years he drove truck, he logged over 3 1/3 million miles and had an atlas in his head, rarely needing to read a map. Ray was married to Bonita Boiler, his high school sweetheart. They had two children, Anthony and Christine. They were later divorced. He married a second time which also ended in divorce. The third time, which is said to be the charm, he married Cheryl Dressen and lived happily ever after, which came too quickly. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, of Idaho Falls, and 6 children (some biological, some not, but all very precious to him) Tony (Nancy) of Eau Claire, WI; Christine (Christopher) Lawrence of Elk Mound, WI; Rachel (Tory) Shirley; Mandy (Bryan) Anderson; Taylor (Amanda) Dressen and Scott (Kenna) Dressen, all of Idaho Falls. He is also survived by his twin brother Robert (Jane ) Curtis of Eau Claire, WI; brother, Jack (Sue) Curtis of Bloomer, WI and sister, Jean (Jim) Thompson of Maple Grove, Minnesota. He has 10 grandchildren. Ray was a giant man, in stature and in heart. He had a dry sense of humor that brought smiles to many people. A memorial service will be held at the Idaho Falls LDS Lincoln 3rd Ward, 2545 Mesa, Idaho Falls on Thursday, April 9, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. There will be a visitation with the family at the church from 11:30 until 12:45 prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of Eastern Idaho, 1810 Moran, Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401. Their care and love made his last days one of dignity and comfort. He will be interred in Eau Claire, WI close to his mother and father. Local arrangements are under the direction of Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Ave. ---------------------------------------------------- Condolences received online: David & Doris Havner dahavner@yahoo.com We were fortunate in life to have met Ray when we both drove for Doug Andrus. He will be fondly remembered by us for his kindness and sense of humor. Our deepest sympathies to the family for their loss. Marydell Easley (form. Andrews) Cheryl - So sorry and surprised to hear of your husband's passing. I feel very selfish "hogging" our conversation the other day - telling you of my changes. I'm so sorry I didn't ask about your life & how things were going? I've always enjoyed our visits and friendship and only wish the best for you. I'm glad you had this time with Ray but know you'll miss him. Know I'm thinking of you. Love, Marydell Loretta (Sobol) Lunderville I am so sorry to hear of the death of Ray. We were classmates at Memorial High School in Eau Claire. You have my deepest sympathy. Mike Berry Stephen.Berry@icp.doe.gov Dear Cheryl,You have my deepest sympathy on the passing of your husband Ray. You and I have talked a lot over the last 19 plus years about our spouses and I could tell that you and Ray had something very special together. I was deeply saddened when I saw the notice in the paper about Ray's passing, but I know he will remain in your heart forever. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.Sincerely, Mike Berry Lois Conkle (Grorud) malcstuff@CenturyTel.net So sorry for your loss. I lost contact many years ago with his family,but I still remember Rays warm smile and his sense of humor. Ray came from a wonderful family who I wished were my own. They always made me feel welcome. My Deepest Sympathy to you all. Cheryl (Stubbe) Paul flcatz@aol.com Just to let you know that I'm thinking of you all and sending heartfelt condolences to the entire family.