Robert "John" Curtis

Robert “John” Curtis, of Caro, age 79, went to be with the Lord on Monday, August 31, 2026, while at My Michigan in Saginaw. He was born on December 21, 1946 in Montrose, Colorado, the son of the late Abraham and Stella (McCunniff) Curtis. During John’s childhood he lived in Wells, New York and later moved back to Montrose where he graduated with the class of 1965.

Throughout his life, John wore many hats and pursued a variety of interests. He worked as an auto mechanic, a career that complemented his lifelong passion for working on cars. He also attended the police academy and spent a short time serving as a corrections officer.

John was a man of deep faith who carried the teachings of the Lord with him throughout his life. He was a proud and devoted member of the Caro Church of the Nazarene, where he taught Sunday School, served on the church board, and shared his voice as a member of the choir. John continued his walk in faith as an attendee of Journey of Grace Church, where he found fellowship and remained devoted to the faith that had guided him throughout his life. His faith was also reflected in his desire to serve others. Within the Caro community, John was involved with the local women’s shelter and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

As a young man, John met his first wife and was blessed to welcome her three boys into his life as his own. Becoming a father brought him great joy, and he treasured the years spent raising his sons. Together, they created countless memories, many of which were made during their camping adventures. Together, they traveled and camped throughout Michigan and ventured as far as Canada, New York, and Colorado. His love of camping left a lasting impression on his sons, who continued the tradition into their own lives.

John reconnected with a childhood best friend, Billie VonderHeide. As they spent more time together, their friendship grew into something more, strengthened by the experiences and responsibilities they shared. They married and went on to share more than twenty-three beautiful years together. John and Billie made the most of those years, traveling extensively throughout the western United States and visiting many national parks along the way. Their adventures also took them to Alaska and Hawaii, creating memories they would cherish for years to come.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Billie; son, Gene (Nancy) Curtis; stepchildren, William Gattie and Rebecca Aling. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his sons, Jerry Curtis and Kevin Curtis.

A memorial service honoring John’s life is being planned, with additional details to be announced as they become available. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Journey of Grace Church in Saginaw.