Katherine Curtis, age 93, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and aunt, died Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at Woodland Pond, New Paltz, NY. Katherine was born March 1, 1927 in Brooklyn, NY and lived there until 2001, when she relocated to New Paltz to be closer to family.
She was the daughter of the late Nicholas and Venetia (Callas) Soulias and was predeceased by her dear siblings, Marina Kachulis and Christie Soulias. Katherine is survived by her son, Emanuel “Mike” Curtis (Lisa Byerly Curtis) of New Paltz, NY; a daughter, Veneta (Mark) Golde of Hauppauge, NY; she also has four grandchildren: Caroline (Russell) Kastberg of Modena, NY; Katherine Curtis of Boston, MA; Joanna (Jai) Jacob of New York City, NY; Marla (Jonny) Hamilton of Greenlawn, NY; six great grandchildren: Alia, Zac and Mina Jacob; Crosby, Felix and Jude Hamilton.
Katherine’s amazing organizational skills served her well during her decades-long career as a school administrator at Baruch College of CUNY until her retirement in 1993. She shared her Greek heritage by acting as a Yia Yia (grandmother) to family and friends alike. Katherine had a true “green thumb”; she loved to spend time gardening and nurturing house plants. She was also an avid reader. A woman ahead of her time, she was open minded and accepting of all.
Her most cherished role was as a deeply devoted family member. She remained a caring, comforting, and steadfast presence for her relatives throughout her life. For many decades, she warmly hosted dozens of loved ones every Thanksgiving in her peaceful and meticulously kept home. Katherine always conducted herself with grace and dignity and never had an unkind word for anyone, endearing herself to everyone she met.
Interment will take place at the New Paltz Rural Cemetery. Due to the current pandemic, Katherine’s adoring extended family will host a memorial to celebrate her life when it is safe to gather.
Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family of Katherine by visiting www.copelandhammerl.com. Memorial donations can be made to Hartley House, 413 West 46 Street, New York, NY 10036. Founded in 1897, Hartley House serves school-age children, youth, and seniors in Hell’s Kitchen by enriching their lives, expanding their opportunities, and building a sense of community. http://www.hartleyhouse.org/donate-support
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