Remembering CDR Robert Dee Curtis: A Life of Service, Faith, and Adventure

CDR Robert Dee Curtis, a man of unwavering dedication and service, passed away on April 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and adventure. As the oldest son of the late Robert Perry Curtis and Irene Anna Curtis of Converse, IN, Curtis was raised with strong values and a sense of purpose that would guide him throughout his life.

Curtis's life was marked by his commitment to his family, his country, and his community. He was predeceased by his wife of 36 years, Mary Sellew Curtis, and is survived by his four daughters, Cheryl Small, Susan Barber (Chris), Sharon Chapman (Keith), and Cecilia Cornelius, as well as eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. This close-knit family was the cornerstone of Curtis's life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

A devoted member of Third Presbyterian Church, Norfolk, Curtis served as an elder and was actively involved in the church community. His faith was a source of strength and inspiration, guiding him through the triumphs and challenges of his life. Curtis's spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with his sense of purpose, and he remained committed to his values and principles throughout his life.

CDR Curtis's distinguished career in the US Navy was marked by bravery, skill, and dedication. As a Naval Flight Officer and Vietnam veteran, he faced numerous challenges and dangers, yet he persevered with courage and resolve. His postings to Antarctica and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, were among his favorites, offering unique opportunities for growth and exploration. Curtis's experience in the Navy not only shaped his character but also broadened his perspective on the world.

After retiring from the Navy, Curtis pursued a career in Civil Service as an Electrical Engineer, leveraging his skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in his community. His passion for learning and personal growth led him to graduate from Oak Hill High School (1960) and Purdue University (1976) with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Curtis's academic achievements were a testament to his hard work and determination, and he remained committed to lifelong learning throughout his life.

A memorial service will be held at Third Presbyterian Church, Norfolk, on June 6, at 10:00 am, to celebrate Curtis's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church, a fitting tribute to a man who devoted so much of his life to his faith and community. As we remember CDR Robert Dee Curtis, we honor his memory by continuing to live out the values he embodied: service, faith, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

CDR Curtis's story serves as a reminder that a life of purpose and meaning is within reach for all of us. Through his example, we are inspired to reexamine our own values and priorities, to seek out new challenges and opportunities, and to cultivate a deeper sense of community and connection with those around us. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.

In the months and years to come, CDR Curtis's family, friends, and community will continue to feel the impact of his passing. However, even in grief, there is a sense of celebration and gratitude for the life he lived and the memories he created. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that every moment counts, and every decision we make has the power to shape our future and the world around us. CDR Robert Dee Curtis may be gone, but his spirit, his legacy, and his impact will never be forgotten.