Curtis Parke of Collyer, KS passed away on February 11, 2020 in Lenexa, KS surrounded by his family. He was born in Quinter, Kansas to Peter and Rose Parke on September 2, 1929. He graduated from Trego Community High School in WaKeeney in 1946. Curtis briefly attended the University of Kansas before being called to serve in the Korean War. Curtis married Pauline Reitcheck on February 26, 1957.
Curtis is the youngest of five children, born to a family of Irish and Czech immigrants. Though his family faced the difficulties of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, he recounts a happy childhood on the family farm. Curtis considered himself extremely blessed to have lived his entire life farming this same land on the Hackberry Creek and raising cattle on the green Kansas pastures.
Curtis’ most endearing qualities were his unstoppable optimism and his enduring enthusiasm. He constantly looked on the bright side and saw the good in everything. His outlook on life was reflected in the many passions that he held, namely singing, music, storytelling, and history. Trips to town often became music sessions for his children, and anytime there was an audience, a joke or story would be told.
Curtis was a lifelong student and teacher for his children and grandchildren, especially in the areas of current events and politics. He always encouraged his children to be informed and engaged in the world around them. Nothing made him prouder than to hear about the many accomplishments of his grandchildren.
Undoubtedly, one of the most impactful events in his life was his service in the U.S. Army. He brought back many stories from his time in Korea, as well as a Purple Heart. But most importantly, Curtis brought back a perspective that he carried with him his entire life: people all over the world, no matter race or religion, share a common hope for peace and prosperity. This principle was reflected in the kindness and acceptance he extended to all people.
Curtis was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith. He was a lifelong member of Christ the King Catholic Church in WaKeeney and the Knights of Columbus. Though Curtis’ family and friends feel a deep void with his passing, they understand that he is now at peace. His legacy and memory are firmly implanted in their hearts and minds. `
Curtis leaves to mourn his passing five children and fifteen grandchildren: daughter Mary (Carlos) of Phoenix, AZ and sons Sean (Megan, Colin, and Nevan Madrid; daughter Susan (Martin) of Lenexa, KS and children Emilio, Ryan, and Geena Fajardo; son Eugene (Tracey) of Noblesville, IN and children Liam and Madeline Parke; daughter Lori (Brian) of Berryton, KS and children Jon, Jacob, and Jessica Belleau; daughter Cindy (Bill) of Shawnee, KS and children Jordan (Katlynn, Caitlin, Branson, and Nicholas Billinger. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline, parents, Peter and Rose, and siblings, Helen, Thomas, Robert, and Leo.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 17, 2020, at Christ the King Catholic Church, WaKeeney. Burial will be in the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, WaKeeney.
Visitation and viewing will be Sunday evening, from 5 to 7 at the funeral home in WaKeeney. A parish vigil service will follow at 7:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Christ the King Catholic Church, VFW Post 3449, or Smoky Hills Public Television. Donations made to the organization may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.schmittfuneral.com.