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- Duluth News Tribune (MN)
March 25, 2009
Donald J. Currier, Sr., passed away March 23, 2009.
He was born Jan. 24, 1913 to Frank A. and Susan E. Currier. He filled his life and the lives of those around him with enough love, laughter and values to last another lifetime.
"Big Don" graduated from Duluth Central High School and Duluth Business University. He worked for Zalk Josephs Company as a Territory Manager of Steel Sales. Wanting to spend more time with his family than on the road, he accepted the job of Purchasing Agent and Warehouse Manager for Walker Jamar Company and remained there until his retirement.
When he wasn't working, Don loved fishing, golfing, bowling and walking. The family trip to Leech Lake was one of his favorite annual events, where much of his time was spent teaching his grandchildren how to fish. He didn't hang up his fishing pole until he was 93. The quintessential handyman, Don was always ready to work on projects for his family or church.
Don served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and advanced to the rank of Chief of Stores aboard the USS CORE. He also proudly served his country in the Korean Conflict. He was a member of American Legion Post 71.
He was a member of the Glen Avon Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite and the Aad Temple Shrine. Over the years, because of his love for children, and especially his love of children in need, he served as Circus Chairman, Past President of the Midwest Shrine Circus Association, and Hospital Representative to the Shrine Children's Hospital in Minneapolis. He originated and was the Chairman of the School Children's Circus Poster Contest. He also served as Captain and Secretary of the Aad Drum and Bugle Corps, and was the Editor and Business Manager of the Aad News.
Don married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Fritze on Oct. 4, 1952, and her happiness became his guiding compass. Family and friends alike benefitted from his belief that love is made real through action. He had time for everyone, especially those who were most in need of that precious gift. Once Don was in your life, you were never forgotten or ignored.
When he reached his 90s, Don graciously accepted from others the gifts he had so freely given during the rest of his life. Dr. Harvey Smith and nurses Tammy and Annette were his personal angels. The home health workers who were with him during the end of his life, especially Linda and Kim, were a gift both to Don and his family. His wife, Betty spent every minute with her "sweet prince", filling each of his days with joy. Hers was the last face his eyes rested upon before he left this life.
Don is preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Phrona, Ella (James) Elder, Bonnie (Neil) Marvin, Barbara (Dr. John) Peterson, Francis (George) Bush; two brothers, Charles and Fred.
He is survived by his wife, Betty; daughter, Lee Anne (Marv) Heikkinen; sons, Don Jr. (Peg), and Tom (Glenna); seven grandchilddren, Eric (Yulissa), Wendy (Bruce) Grimes, Megan and Tara Bugge, Max, Jon and Shannon Currier; four great grandchildren, Danielle and Steven Grimes, Aaliyah and Emily Currier and many nieces and nephews.
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1913 - 2009 (96 years)
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