SFC (Ret) Curtis Means

Curtis Means, son of the late Jim and Verta (Smith) Means, was born April 22, 1929 in Overton County, Tennessee where he grew up and attended school. In 1948 at the age of 19, Curtis entered the United States Army, and served his country faithfully until his retirement in 1969. He served 4 tours in Germany. He was stationed in Tunisa, Alaska, Fort Polk and served in the Vietnam War. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class, and was awarded several medals and commendations. In 1951 during one of his tours in Germany, Curtis met the love of his life, Maria T. Frank. She was working as a cashier in an Officer’s Club in Heidelberg, Germany. They were married on November 26, 1955 and shared over 54 years of marriage together. They were blessed with two daughters: Patricia Ann and Mary Jean. Curtis was proud of his Tennessee heritage. He fondly recalled memories of his hardworking upbringing and the values that they instilled. He was an avid sportsman, and maybe the best shot with a slingshot in Tennessee. After retiring from the military, Curtis began working at Fort Leonard Wood. He was the main gardener on post and enjoyed working with the different plants and flowers. Curtis enjoyed working in his garden and was known for his bountiful harvests. He enjoyed being outdoors mowing his lawn and feeding all the deer and other wildlife that would come through his yard. For the past several years, you could find Curtis at McDonalds in Waynesville with the morning coffee group discussing and solving all the worlds’ problems. Curtis passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at the age of 81 years and 16 days. He will be greatly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Curtis leaves to cherish his memory his wife Maria Means of the home; two daughters: Patty Ann Hudson of Waco, TX and Mary Jean Dixon of Dallas, TX; 8 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; several other relatives and a host of friends. In addition to his parents, Curtis was preceded in death by four sisters and four brothers. Funeral services were held at 10:00 A.M. Monday, May 17, 2010 in the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church with Father John Groner officiating. Soloist / Organist Evelyn Horine sang “Ave Maria” and also led the congregation in singing “Be Not Afraid” and “Amazing Grace”. Chuck Kremer assisted Father Groner with the readings. Curtis’ daughter Mary Jean and his oldest grandchild, Kathy recalled their wonderful memories of Curtis. Serving as escorts were Tom Anderson, Bryan Schaffner, Chuck Chittenden, Randy Walters, Richard McKinnon, Donley West and Chuck Thompson. Burial with military honors followed in the Resurrection Cemetery of St. Robert. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Curtis Means and may be left at the funeral home.

SFC (Ret) Curtis Means

April 26, 1929 - May 12, 2010