Baylor Mourns Death of Education Professor

Dr. K. Fred Curtis, The C.G. Strickland Professor of Education and professor of curriculum and instruction for more than 30 years in Baylor University's School of Education, died Nov. 29 in Waco. He was 68.

Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 800 N. New Rd.

Curtis was born Oct. 21, 1939, in South Sioux City, Neb. He earned his undergraduate degree in secondary education and biology from Wayne State College in 1962, a master's degree at University of Nebraska, Omaha, in 1967, and his doctorate from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, in 1973.

In 1973, Curtis joined the Baylor faculty and worked for more than three decades as a passionate educator and leader within the School of Education. As The C.G. Strickland Professor of Education and professor of curriculum and instruction, he touched the lives of his many students, teachers and colleagues. As a leader in his field, he contributed greatly to the direction of his professional organizations, provided instruction and continuing education to teachers across the state of Texas, and created numerous programs at Baylor reaching international prominence.

"I had the privilege of knowing Fred Curtis for over 30 years and for the past 26 years he has been my best friend and trusted colleague," said Dr. Elden R. Barrett, professor of curriculum and instruction at Baylor's School of Education. "His professional passions were science education, professional field experiences, international student teaching and teacher education. He has left a legacy not only here at Baylor but throughout the nation. Fred touched so many lives and we are all better for having known him."

Curtis edited or authored several books and monographs on teacher education and field experiences. He also was an invited presenter for several years at the annual national meeting of the Association of Teacher Educators.

Curtis was an active leader in his church, St. Matthew Lutheran, and his community. He celebrated life by sharing his passions with others through his community service, love for music and singing, and interest in travel and international cultures.

Curtis was preceded in death by his parents, Harriet and Norbert Curtis; his older brother, Norbert; and his step-father, Jack Buser.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Karen Childs Curtis; sons, Dr. David Curtis and wife, Michelle, and Michael Curtis; daughter, Heather Curtis Nichols and husband, Greg; grandchildren, Michael David Curtis and Catherine Abigail Curtis; brothers, Jack Buser and wife, Susan; Ned Buser and wife, Jeanne; and Dr. Kerrey Buser and wife, Kim.

Memorials may be made to St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 800 N. New Road, Waco, TX, or to the American Diabetes Association.