Robert M. Curtis

Robert M. Curtis, age 90, of Chestnut Street, Meadville, PA, passed away Tuesday, January 15, 2019, at Crawford County Care Center.  The family is grateful for Crawford County Care Center’s kindness and good care. Bob was born in North Braddock, PA, on July 22, 1928.  On November 24, 1955, he married Margaret Maier.  He graduated from St. Thomas High School and was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.  He was honorably discharged.  He then graduated from Duquesne University and later obtained a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Pittsburgh.  He taught Social Studies in East McKeesport for two years before serving as a Blue Shield West Pennsylvania Field Representative for ten years.  His position with Blue Shield in Pittsburgh was transferred in 1963 to Meadville, PA, with his wife and three daughters.  He later became Assistant Director for Relations in Harrisburg. The family decided to stay in Meadville, and he became Executive Director for the Erie County Mental Health Association and Field Representative for Pennsylvania Health Association from 1966-1967.  In 1968, he became a Northwest Field Representative for the Pennsylvania Office of Mental Health.  Bob became the first Administrator for Crawford County Mental Health in 1969 and helped to develop therapeutic rehabilitation.  He was responsible for obtaining City Hospital’s first psychiatrist, Dr. Stolar as well as starting the Drug and Alcohol program and CHAPS.  He was very instrumental in the betterment of conditions at Warren State Hospital.  He remained as Administrator for thirteen years.  In 1983, he developed and enlarged Venango Training and Development Center Rehabilitation Services for six years before retiring. Bob was a family man and community-minded.  He enjoyed golfing, bowling, woodworking, playing pool, and singing with the Barbershop Quartet for many years. He was an avid walker and bicyclist.  He was a skilled interior and exterior painter and enjoyed helping members of his family. Survivors include his wife, Margaret Curtis, of Meadville, their daughters Lorraine Rich and her husband Lou, Eileen Roznowski and her husband Carl, Barbara Wright and her husband Byron, five grandchildren and two great granddaughters.  At Bob’s request, there will be no calling hours or services.  Please sign the online guest book at hatheway-tedesco.com.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association: Greater Pennsylvania Chapter - Erie Office 1600 Peninsula Dr. Suite 15, Erie, PA 16505. Arrangements have been entrusted to HATHEWAY-TEDESCO FUNERAL HOME, 614 BALDWIN ST. MEADVILLE, PA.