Jean A. Curtis, 81 of Eau Claire passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2020 at Dove Healthcare-West.
Jean A. Curtis Christopherson was born on February 12, 1938 in Eau Claire, WI to Vera L. (Woodford) and William J. Christopherson.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Dennis Weeks and John W. Christopherson; and sister, Donna Pfund.
Ms. Curtis was a life-long resident of Eau Claire and graduated from E.C. Senior High School in 1956. She was employed by Uniroyal Tire Company from 1956 until the plant closure, accumulating 37 years of service. She was also employed as Executive Housekeeper at Midway Hotel and at L&M Mail Service for over 20 years.
Through the years she was a member of the Wisconsin Pony of the Americas Club, the E.C. Bit & Spur club, E.C. Trail Riders, The Royaleers, Retreads and Has-Beens of Uniroyal. While raising her daughter, Jean became very active in 4-H, Girl Scouts, POA pony showing, and Scholarship Pageants.
Since age 15, Jean always loved her horses, Rocky King, Miss War Wind, and Bars O’ War as well as her wonderful companion dogs, Lady Luck, Shadow, TAXI, and ZIPI. Jean’s animal family was always featured on her hand-drawn Christmas cards each year.
At her home, Bit O’ War Farm, she enjoyed weed therapy, gardening, and internet surfing and chats with her friends. Jean will be remembered for her enjoyment of music and singing her favorite songs: “The Lord’s Prayer,” “Danny Boy,” and “The Auctioneer.” She also loved the outdoors, travel, painting, photography, and writing articles and poetry. As the Poet of Uniroyal, her laments on the closure of the plant were widely circulated and included in the book “America’s Heartbeat.” At the time of her death, she was only half done with her many projects. Know for doing things, “MY WAY,” Jean wrote this obit-to get in the last word (and perhaps a chuckle or two.)
Ms. Curtis is survived by a daughter, Kelly Jean Curtis (Wayne Whitwam); two grandchildren, Deena Jean and Curtis Park; sister, Karen Stein (Michael) of Menomonie. She is also survived by 5 nieces, four nephews, and several grandnieces and nephews.
Memorials may be directed to the E.C. County Humane Association or Bob’s House for Dogs. No flowers please.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 11:00 am at Smith Funeral Chapel with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be at 1:00 pm at Rest Haven Cemetery. Friends and family may leave online condolences at www.smithfuneralec.com.
Not a surprise that Jean wrote her own obituary. One of the strongest, most independent women I’ve ever known. Kelly, you were so lucky to have this woman raise you, and I am happy & proud to have had her as a friend. R.I.P., Jean. Your work here is done.
Jean being the sister of Donna, my sister-inlaw, I had the pleasure of being with her on several occasions through the years and knew her as very interesting and thoughtful! I’m so sorry for your loss!
Your mom lived a full and adventurous life. Like my own mother she was ahead of her time and liked to do things her way. She was a lifelong friend to my mom, Jean Remington.
Condolences to Kelly and family on their sad loss. Jean often referred to Australia as her 2nd country and we were fortunate to have her here with us on three separate occasions.
Two words that describe her are “Unforgettable and Irreplaceable “.
Jean was a one-in-a-million woman who was so full of life and love, and anyone who was blessed to meet her would remember her forever. A strong, opinionated woman with a heart of gold. She changed many lives along the way. So blessed to have known her, and had her a part of the barn posse. Thank you Jean… Just for being so wonderfully you. We miss you.
Rest In Peace Jean . Your kindness will never be forgotten , you always held a special place in my thoughts and heart even though I only met you twice I felt like I knew you like family , love always your Aussie friend janine ❤️
Rest In Peace Jean we will miss you
I got to know Jean through our time together at L&M Mail Service. She could do and was willing to do anything that needed to get done. She often improved the process along the way. It seems the things she was involved with, and the people that were lucky enough to have her in her life, were all improved by the way she approached life.
God Bless Jean and Family.
So sorry to of Jean’s passing was in Texas for the winter. Enjoyed working and partying with her. God bless her
Cleo Janish