John Ben Curtis

With heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of John Ben Curtis, Professional Engineer, loving husband, and inspirational father. Survived by his beloved Joycey (wife of 67 beautiful years); his three daughters, Cynthia, Holly, and Janet (Thane Gilmour); and forever remembered by grandchildren, Caprice and Cree.

JB Curtis was an extraordinary man modeling intellectual and personal integrity, a spectacular rationality, and sense of adventure throughout his long lifetime. Often considered the smartest man in the room, a quick and kind spirit imbued John with a perfect humility. He was an impeccable gentleman and people loved to spend time with him! Always with a glint in his eye, John recalled a life of adventure —from early on exploring with his “First Mate” Joy. Whether boating or building, John’s masterful skill and ingenuity meant that they would canoe, portage, and camp in the wilderness of Algonquin and sail the islands and sparkling waters of Georgian Bay. John savoured his life with Joycey, often reflecting on days skiing from the little cabin they built together in Collingwood and evenings planning over fireside meals. Many happy summers spent fishing and waterskiing behind Cree’s boat made happy memories of visiting family in Haliburton and Farlain (“Cook’s”) Lake, all while starting a family in old Toronto. Over 65 years, J&J lived fully, instilling in their girls a love of family and the out of doors.

J&J’s lives were busy and bright. A proud graduate of UofT’s Engineering (’57), John went on to build a career as a civil servant whose razor-sharp mathematical mind informed his decision-making. Armed with his mastery of civil engineering and a proclivity for negotiations, plans for thousands of miles of highway, freeway, and bridgework in Ontario were scrutinized at his desk. John eventually retired from the MTO’s Head Office as the province’s Chief Negotiator.

John’s encouragement of his daughters (and an early and unyielding believer in the rights of women and girls) left behind a legacy of independent spirit, strength of conviction, and rational leadership. Never a real advocate of retirement, John shared his love of mathematics and engineering by volunteering in the community, advising and leading building committees, serving his neighbours, and actively playing (and winning!) at bridge. (Sorry Dad—we had to brag, finally). John’s advice was sought after, and he gave freely of his company and best thinking to so many. With a deep faith, John remained humbled and grateful to God for his good fortune and so, in turn, generously and consistently supported numerous local and international charities over his lifetime.