Ron was born on September 24, 1935, in Wapello County, Iowa, the son of Donald and Mae (Laughlin) Curtis. He graduated valedictorian from Columbus High School, Columbus Junction, Iowa, in 1954, and from Iowa State University in 1958.
Ron married Lilyan Zavodny on June 1, 1963, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
After teaching Industrial Arts for five years at Cedar Rapids Jefferson High, Ron transitioned to Scott Community College, where he started the Electronics Technology program. Ron retired from SCC in 1998, after 39 years, and continued in an adjunct capacity through 2002.
Ron was a member of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Davenport, for nearly 60 years. He enjoyed singing in the choir and was proud that he sang in the choir for over 50 years. He also served as treasurer for many years, as a member of the vestry, as senior warden, as softball coach and as lead landscaper (i.e., mowed the lawn for 20+ years). He served on the board of Scott County Christian Fellowship League for eight years. In retirement, he served as treasurer of the Quad Cities Woodturners for a number of years.
In his younger days, Ron enjoyed bowling, fishing, and softball, but his true love was always woodturning and woodworking. He spent many hours in Papa’s Workshop, where he was his happiest.
Ron is survived by one son, Grant (Cathy) Curtis, Davenport; daughters Michelle Feeney, Davenport and Nancy Dugan, Long Grove; grandchildren Eric, Kim, Josh, Seán (Jess) and Kaleigh; his sister Donna Cox, Johnston; and his brother Robert (Cheryl), Columbus Junction. He was preceded in death by his loving wife and parents.
Visitation is Monday, May 8, from 4-7 p.m. at Runge Mortuary, Davenport. Celebration of Life Services are Friday, May 19, at 11 a.m. at St. Alban’s, 3510 W. Central Park, Davenport, followed by a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the SCC Foundation (eicc.edu/sccfoundation) for establishment of a scholarship in his memory.
