Richard "Dick" A. Curtis

Born on August 15, 1945, in Elyria, Ohio, Richard was the son of the late Robert and Marion Curtis. He grew up in Elyria and graduated from Elyria Catholic High School. Afterwards, he entered the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy and worked for 25 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring. Dick finished his undergraduate degree and earned an MBA from The Ohio State University, graduating the same day as both of his daughters. After retiring from the Ohio Highway Patrol, he served as the Executive Director of the Ohio Highway Patrol Retirement System before finally retiring. He stayed active serving as Director of the Graduate School at Franklin University for 4 years and remained as an adjunct professor teaching there through this Spring. Throughout his career, he was known for being firm yet fair and mentored many young professionals to achieve their best.

A long-time resident of Upper Arlington, he was dedicated to the community serving for many years as the volunteer chair for the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield and the Nationwide Children’s Championship at The Ohio State University Club, both benefitting Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He believed in “lifetime sports” and was an avid golfer and skier, and shared that love of both sports with his family. Dick loved telling stories and had many from his time at work and volunteering. He loved his family and cared for those around him.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Lynn (née Evans), his two children, Laura (Mark) Ritchey and Karin (John) Dietrich, and his nine grandchildren, Kelsey, Taylor, Mason, Devin, Ethan, Nicole, Nathan, Christina, and Matthew and four great-grandchildren Charles, Lucas, Ethan, and Everett. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Curtis, two nieces, a nephew and many cousins.

Calling hours to celebrate his life will be held on January 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST in Upper Arlington, Ohio. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Dick’s life and share memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Dick’s memory. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences.

Dick will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.