FRANK CURTIS

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FRANK CURTIS July 13, 1938 - March 14, 2018 Unexpectedly, after a short illness, Frank Curtis passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving wife Ulrike, on March 14, 2018, in Cozumel, Mexico. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Anna and Joseph Kaplansky and his sister Lillian Silvert. He leaves to mourn his wife Ulrike; his children, Spencer, Cameron (Chieko) and Stacey-Anne; as well as his grandchildren, Anika, Callie, Eli, Ritsu, Kaya and Yori. He will be missed by many friends and relatives in Canada, Europe and Mexico. Frank was born in Warsaw, Poland and survived the horrors of the Second World War with his parents, as they were transported between various camps in Russia and Germany. During this period he lost his baby brother. At the age of 10, he immigrated to Manitoba with his family. His friend Brian Greenberg mentioned that Frank's early experiences in life forged his tough exterior, but also left him with compassion for others. Upon arrival he quickly learned English, attended schools in the North End of Winnipeg and secured a variety of part-time jobs before and after school, to help his parents make ends meet. It must be emphasized that Frank was not a survivor but an overcomer. He was able to leave the horrors of his past behind and move forward with his unstoppable ambition to build his family a legacy. Frank became a chartered accountant and his career took him to Vancouver, where he worked in his field for four years during the mid 1960s. He was a valued employee and quickly surpassed all expectations. He never procrastinated, completing all tasks far before deadline. He had the ability to work non-stop, crunch the numbers and find creative solutions to any problem. After returning to Winnipeg, he worked for Mulder Construction, Engineered Homes and the Simkin family in California. Frank was a true self-made man whose hunger to excel and fear of failure made him a trailblazer. His business ventures varied from nursing homes to bingo halls and ultimately to the housing business. He started Hilton Homes, in 1985 and grew this company for over 20 years, with his wife Ulrike at his side. Frank had great respect for his long-term employees and looked upon many as family. During the past decade he had been grooming his son Spencer to manage the business. Rabbi Mass accurately stated that Frank was a visionary with a drive to succeed who never thought of quitting work and never saw himself as an old man. Unbeknownst to many, Frank had an unforgettable singing voice. On special occasions he sang his favourite song, "Love is a Many Splendoured Thing". During a bus tour in Montevideo he was flattered when a famous South American singer commented that he was obviously a professionally-trained vocalist. He certainly could have been! Frank will be remembered for his European cars, stylish tailored suits and love of old movies. He enjoyed discussing world history, current events, business and politics with close friends. Frank was an amazing storyteller; recounting every fascinating detail. He also made a conscious effort to stay fit and strong; sometimes walking up to 10 miles in Mexico. Frank did nothing in moderation and never balked at a challenge. He also enjoyed classical and jazz music, the crooners of the 1940s, opera, theatre and dance. Frank was known as a man of few words and the quintessential example of how "still waters run deep". His favorite phrase was, "Let me tell you why you are wrong". He always responded with a solution that others had not even considered. Frank was a loyal and generous friend to many and had a heart of gold. Spencer's metaphor referred to his father as filet mignon ... "tough, crusty and charred on the outside, but perfectly tender on the inside". Frank and Ulrike met in Cuba 34 years ago. They both had a strong work ethic and respected this quality in each other. They shared a love of travel and had the opportunity to visit almost every continent during the past three decades. Frank had a keen mind that needed to be stimulated with new projects and goals at all times. Just prior to his illness he was busy planning future trips and special occasions. Frank never allowed his childhood hardships, business obstacles or health issues to dictate his future. Frank owned his destiny and encouraged others to do the same. He will never be forgotten by those who respected and loved him. The funeral was held at the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue officiated by Rabbi Anibal Mass on March 21, 2018, with interment at the Shaarey Shamayim Cemetery. Pallbearers were Steve Baker, John Bohna, Brian Greenberg, Michael Kay and Bill and Scott Margolis. To honour Frank's memory, donations may be made to the Manitoba Heart & Stroke Foundation. "Zikhrono livrakha" May his memory be a blessing to all of you.
Publish Date: Mar 31, 2018

FRANK CURTIS Peacefully on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Cozumel, Mexico, Frank Curtis of Winnipeg, aged 79 years, passed away with his loving wife Ulrike by his side. Full obituary to follow. Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, 561 Wellington Crescent.
Publish Date: Mar 20, 2018

FRANK CURTIS Peacefully on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Cozumel, Mexico, Frank Curtis of Winnipeg, aged 79 years, passed away with his loving wife Ulrike by his side. Full obituary to follow. Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, 561 Wellington Crescent.
Publish Date: Mar 20, 2018

FRANK CURTIS Peacefully on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in Cozumel, Mexico, Frank Curtis of Winnipeg, aged 79 years, passed away with his loving wife Ulrike by his side. Full obituary to follow. Funeral service is planned for Wednesday afternoon, March 21, 2018 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, 561 Wellington Crescent. Please contact Shaarey Zedek on Monday or Tuesday to confirm date and time.

Publish Date: Mar 17, 2018

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 31, 2018