C. Curtis Bickly passed on to Jesus, Monday, October 29, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Vera Jean Bickly and 4 children, Larry Bickly and wife Christine, Linda Posthumus and husband George, Bruce Bickly and wife Joan, Sandy Brick and husband Peter and 13 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.
Curtis was born to Lawrence and Reba Bickly in Texas on October 17, 1930. The family moved to La Crescenta, California in 1942. He attended Glendale High School and upon graduation went on to earn his Machinist/Tool Design degree from Glendale College. He enlisted in the Navy and served in the Korean War. He met the love of his life, Vera Jean Van Dyke at church. They were married at First Baptist of Montrose in 1952. Four children would follow.
Curtis worked for Roger Jessup Farms as a milkman. In 1959, he and Vera Jean opened and operated their own Winchell’s Donut Shop in Canoga Park. He was a stock broker for a few years, worked at Lockheed in Burbank, and then Teledyne in Northridge before being hired by Honeywell. He retired from Honeywell in Irvine, California as a purchasing agent and moved to Fresno.
Curtis placed his faith in Jesus Christ as a youth. He served as an usher at church for years and facilitated Bible studies in small groups. His smile and friendly greetings won the hearts of many church attendees. He was an active member of Riverpark Bible Church for 20+ years where his son-in-law, George Posthumus, was the senior pastor.
Curtis loved doing anything where his children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren were involved. He would go to great lengths to attend every event possible.
That he lived 88 years amazed our family. Even he was surprised by his longevity. He was diagnosed with cancer over two years ago and given 6 months to live. He suffered a heart attack in 2017 followed by multiple health issues – all indicating he would be gone soon. But the Lord let him stay longer. For that our family is very grateful.
He was a loving husband and proud father and grandfather.
Memorial Service
Friday, November 9, 2018 at 11 a.m.
Riverpark Bible Church, Fresno
Burial will be private.
