Walter John Curnow

Walter J. Curnow of West Barnstable, MA, passed away on October 30th after a brief illness. He was born on July 24, 1944, and raised in Tupper Lake, NY, where he had many happy memories growing up with his siblings: his sister Constance and his brothers Harry and Frank.

The family eventually moved to New Jersey where Walter was a proud graduate of Columbia High School in Maplewood. There he maintained high marks and earned the nickname "Crusher" for his prowess in wrestling.

A hard worker from the beginning, Walter started his first job selling magazines at the young age of 14. He continued on that sales track after graduating from The University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. Shortly thereafter, he relocated to Massachusetts and began working for the Precision Materials Group at GTE Sylvania. Walter raised his family in East Bridgewater, MA, where he actively participated in the community as a member of the Kiwanis Club, coached his son's Little League baseball team, and was a parishioner of St. John’s Catholic Church. His needs during these years were simple: he enjoyed working in his yard, camping in the Adirondacks, and skiing in Maine with his family. Later in life, he moved to eastern Pennsylvania with his partner, Mae, where he spent time with his brother, his niece and nephew, and their families. He was the Director of Marketing at Trion Industries in Wilkes-Barre, PA, for many years, retiring after an illustrious career in 2005.

Walter was well-rounded, hardworking, and exceptionally well dressed; his children and grandchildren often heard, "Wow, your father/grandfather looks so good!" He loved reminiscing about his work travels and could always find a unique connection with anyone he met.

A lifetime beach enthusiast, Walter lived his later years on Cape Cod, where he spent many days soaking up the sun at Craigville or Millway Beach. He was in regular attendance at Our Lady of Victory in Centerville. During these years, Walter enjoyed some of his favorite pastimes: sitting in his backyard watching the wildlife, listening to old-school country music and enjoying his spiritual programs.

Above all, Walter was immensely proud of his family. There was no greater joy for him than watching his children excel in their careers and raise their own families. He loved attending his grandchildren's games and plays and being a central part of their many special milestone celebrations.

Walter is survived by his children: Christine K. Jenkins (Tom, decd.) of West Barnstable, MA; Sheila M. Whitaker (John) of Bridgewater, MA; and Walter J. Curnow (Kerry) of East Bridgewater, MA. He is also survived by his sister Constance M. Curnow, his brother Frank J. Curnow, 8 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter, as well as his beloved niece, nephew, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Harry R. Curnow and Lillian K. Curnow; his brother, Harry Curnow; and his aforementioned long-term partner, Mae Krantz of Brockton, MA, with whom he loved spending time in eastern Pennsylvania.

Walter's services will be held privately.