In Celebration of

Pauline (nee Lubinski) Curtis

May 17, 1930 -  October 19, 2023


Died peacefully after a long illness, at 93 years of age. Predeceased by her mother Lena (our Babcha); her eight siblings Nick, Kay, Mary, Estelle, Nellie, Jean, Mike and Alec; her husband Jack (died 1994, he always called her Paul); her beloved son John (died 2017, Gilly); her close Aunt Eva (Curtis) Joseph (died 1965). Survived by her loving daughters Carole and Robin and her son-in-law Hannes, and Ted; her grandchildren Eva (Alan), Clare (Andrew), and Desmond; her great grandson Kai and Curtis siblings Lynda Green (Tom) and Bob Joseph (Mary), who were always full members of the Curtis family. Born on a farm in Sylvan, Manitoba, she came to Toronto with her mother as a child and needed to be independent at a young age. She married Jack, who she knew from the neighbourhood (the Curtises on Ryerson and Lubinskis on Denison) at age 18, and had two children by age 21 with the third child following 14 years later. It was a proud achievement when Jack and Paul bought the bungalow in 1956 that she would live in to the very end of her life.

Paul was a voracious reader (loving le Carré in particular). She was thoughtful and intellectually curious, returning to night school when her youngest was a child to complete high school. She passed her lifelong curiosity and determination to her children. Her daughters thank her for her conviction that they should aim to lead professional lives (one became a judge, the other a professor). Paul thought more than she spoke aloud but through her reading and continuous learning formed strong opinions nonetheless. She was loved by us for her independent mind, her humour and wit, her generosity, and humility. She was ever industrious, a collector of hints and remedies, a quilter, a knitter and a sewer, and she completed afghans for many. She was a friend to all animals, especially teddy bears. She was the bookkeeper and office manager at Carole’s law firm for 25 years, retiring at 78, only when the practise closed, and the office staff loved and respected her. The family is grateful for the extraordinary care, friendship, and love she received from Celia Smith and for the wonderful care in the last days of her life at the Dorothy Ley Hospice.

Funeral arrangements with Turner & Porter, Peel Chapel, 2180 Hurontario Street. Visiting on Sunday 19 November 2023 at 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral on Monday 20 November 2023 at 11 a.m.

Rest in peace, Paul and Jack.

Guestbook 

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Dilshad Chunara (Friend)

Entered October 26, 2023 from North York

Rest in eternal peace. Mrs Curtis

Joan Fisher and Steven Zerker (Friend)

Entered October 27, 2023 from Toronto

Carole and Robin,
Sending you our deepest sympathies. The last time I saw your mom, she looked blissful. Not surprising given all the love, care and visits she received from you, Hannes, the geats and her extended family. May her memory be a blessing.

Brian Allen (Neighbour)

Entered October 31, 2023 from Mississauga

Pauline was one-of-a-kind and I was very happy to have her as a neighbour. Absolutely rock-solid dependable. We will miss her.

Shelley Goetze O'Connor (Friend of Pauline's daughter, Carole Curtis)

Entered November 13, 2023 from Toronto

Heartfelt condolences to Pauline's family and friends and all whose lives she touched. With every remembrance, she is always with you. May you feel the support from all who are thinking of you today and the days ahead with remembrance of Pauline. May Pauline be at peace now. (((HUGS))) dear Carole

Heather Robertson (Friend of the family)

Entered November 18, 2023 from Toronto

I met Pauline numerous times at Carole’s office and at some family events. She was always witty and friendly - she has very decided views on some subjects - especially mystery novels - I remember her analysis of one of Robert Parker’s “ Spencer “ novels - she was not happy with the role assigned to his friend Hawk. She was insightful. It has been a long road to her final rest - hard for her and for the family who cared for her so patiently. Sincere condolences on her loss - but now she is at rest.

Photos 

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