Curtis Hass

Curtis Hass, 90, formerly of Flint, Michigan, passed away in Springfield, Missouri on November 18, 2017. Curt was born in Marmaduke, Arkansas in 1927. He and his wife, Helen Marie (Starnes) Hass, moved to Flint in the early 50's. He began work as a carpenter but was soon hired by H.H. Stevens Moving and Storage. He was employed there for about 30 years. They had one daughter, Marcia Y. (Hass) Downs. He was a member of Eastwood United Methodist Church where he served on many committees and helped the church to grow in membership. He was a proud member of the Civitan Club. Curt was a man that "walked the walk" and many people were proud to call him a friend. He was the person that would gladly give you the shirt off his back. He was very talkative and loved to visit. Anyone that knew him knew they could count on him when they were in need. He was a favorite uncle to more than 38 nieces and nephews.

Curtis joined the Navy at the age of 17. He served from 1942-1944. He was washed off the ship as it was being foundered in the South Pacific. Three ships circled him for 4 hours during stormy seas until they were able to rescue him.

His wife, Helen, remained the love of his life. He cared for her through 7 years of Alzheimer's, never leaving her side. She showed signs of anxiety if he wasn't close to her, and that was something he simply could not bare.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen; his parents, Lee and Vashti Hass; and brothers, Crillon, Cleo, and Charles. He is survived by three sisters, Amy Gardner, Willyne Jordan, and Joan Conklin; his daughter and son-in-law, Craig and Marcia Downs; 5 grandchildren, Zachary and wife, Ashley Downs, Hillary Downs, Tucker Downs, Justina Downs, and Mitchell Downs; most specially his great granddaughter, Amelia Renae Downs (3), who entertained Poppa Curt with her dance and yoga moves. He is also survived by in-laws, Wayne and Betty Starnes, Nola Learline Starnes, and Joanne Starnes Allen, and multiple nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Saturday, December 9th from 12:30-2pm at Heath Funeral Home. The funeral begins at 2pm. Burial is in Harvey's Chapel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's organization of your choice.

Curt was a pillar of his church family. He was a man that was loved by all that knew him and someone we could model our lives after.

We love you, Dad, Grandpa, Poppa Curt, and Uncle Curt. Enjoy your reunion with mom. You've waited a long time to rejoin her.