Curt McDowell

June 25, 1962 ~ January 29, 2025

Curt Owen McDowell, age 62, of Zeeland, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on January 29, 2025. We all know it was far too soon.

A proud graduate of Wyoming Park High School and Michigan State University, Curt was a lifelong Spartan fan. Over the years, he served as an Assistant Principal, Teacher, Coach, and Mentor in the Wyoming and Hudsonville Public Schools, dedicating 30 years to his students and colleagues. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, genuine care, and deep commitment to students and staff. Teaching Credit Recovery in his final years brought Curt a deep sense of purpose and reward. He also loved coaching, and the time he spent with the athletes was one of the most meaningful parts of his life.

Curt found happiness while golfing, bowling (one of his last great joys), and solving crossword puzzles and games. He had a passion for smoking meat -- mastering brisket and pulled pork -- and was known for his delicious sourdough bread. Music was a constant presence in his life; he especially loved blues, folk and classic rock. In retirement, he officiated college and high school track meets, taught himself how to rebuild guitars, jammed with his brother-in-law, Tim, spent time with his grandchildren and became a self-proclaimed bourbon connoisseur.

His love for life extended to attending concerts, spending time outdoors fishing and hunting with David and Rudy. He loved attending sporting events, especially his entire family’s. Curt never gave up the opportunity to spend time with his Delta Chi fraternity brothers and 5-Lo East Holmes Hall friends. He brought joy into everyone’s life with his impersonations, entertaining stories, and singing his “O-Holy-Night” solo each year on Christmas Eve.

Curt passed down his love for natural science, cooking, music, stargazing, creativity, and curiosity to his children. He and his wife, Diane, cherished traveling together—visiting their children across the U.S., England, and China, as well as adventuring to Scotland, Ireland, Mexico, and Alaska. He also treasured camping trips, playing Euchre with dear friends, and family celebrations.

Even during his illness, Curt still found a way to make every day count, touching the hearts of those around him. He wanted us to carry forward his resilience, passion for life and love for others. He believed in the sentiment that life was not linear and would want us to keep our fins up, take life one cheeseburger in paradise at a time, and always sail on toward our next great adventure.

Curt will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years, Diane; his children, Evan and Shay McDowell, Veronica and Luke Bryant, and Rachel and Jay Tran; and his grandchildren: Scarlett, Theodore, Ruby, baby #3 on the way, and Elliott. He is also survived by his parents, Robert and Rosalee McDowell; his brother, Clint McDowell; his sister, Colleen Schulte; and his many brothers-in-laws, sisters-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and abundant friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Faith Hospice for the care they provided in Curt’s final days. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 6th at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Parish, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, with Fr. Phong Pham presiding. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, February 5th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, Grandville. Visitation will also be held at the church on Thursday one hour prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Kidney Cancer Association in Curt’s honor.

Visitation
Wednesday, February 5
2:00pm - 4:00pm

MKD - Grandville
4145 Chicago Dr. SW
Grandville, MI 49418
Get Directions

Phone: (616) 534-8656

Visitation
Wednesday, February 5
6:00pm - 8:00pm

MKD - Grandville
4145 Chicago Dr. SW
Grandville, MI 49418
Get Directions

Phone: (616) 534-8656

Visitation
Thursday, February 6
10:00am - 11:00am

Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish
2700 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428
Get Directions

Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, February 6
11:00am

Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish
2700 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428
Get Directions

Leave Your Tribute Message

February 09, 2025 6:28pm
I had a chance to get to know Curt while I helped him sell his Hudsonville house and buy a condo. I could tell right away that away he was a man of character, and a person that was fun to be around. My prayers to all who knew him, especially family. 62 is way too young, but the memories will last forever. Heaven received a great one.

- Doug Takens

February 07, 2025 11:48am
First off, sending prayers and peace to Curt’s family. I worked with Curt all but two years during my time at Hudsonville. His love of education and the staff and students was always front and center. We had many laughs and even an argument ir two, but he was always one of my “school best friends”. A good man who will be missed.

- Linda Boeve

February 06, 2025 9:33am
Curt was the pillar of how to do things the right way. Always being kind and thoughtful of others even if it was tough. As a fraternity brother and roommate, we would talk of a variety of things like being from rival high schools and the guys we played against. Curt and Denise would play Galaga for hours. We know God must have a big plan for him for taking him so early. God bless Curt’s family. Joe and Denise Roe

- Joe Roe

January 31, 2025 9:46pm
Curt was the assistant principal during my time at Hudsonville High School and our families attended church together at Holy Redeemer Parish. High school can be a tough time of transition and new beginnings, but along with Mr. Feenstra, Mr. McDowell touched the lives of me and many other students. I won’t forget how kind he always was to me and how he always wished me a Happy Birthday long after my graduation from Hudsonville. I hope he knows how appreciated he was. My deepest sympathies go out to the family. May peace be with you all.

- Hannah King and Family

January 31, 2025 8:57pm
The McDowell family lived up the street from us. Most of the "McDowell kids" watched us as babies and little ones. Having Curt as a teacher in High School was memorable not only for the learning in class, but for the sense of purpose he instilled in his students. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayer during this difficult time.

- Kristoffer Homrich

January 31, 2025 5:59pm
Curt was one of the principals who hired me in 2001. As both of our roles evolved in our district, he became a great mentor and friend. I am so thankful to have been a small part of his life and will always remember the way that he came into the high school these past years in the space between the travels and treatments. He really taught me how to live life fully and I will miss him as part of our B18 crew. Hugs to the whole McDowell family.

- Erica Hoff

January 31, 2025 5:12pm
We feel blessed to have known Curt. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Diane, and all of your family.

- Terry and Terri Krol

January 31, 2025 3:58pm
Curt was such a dear friend. I met him the first day of my freshman year and we never looked back. It’s been a tremendous friendship with Curt and all of the McDowell‘s. Gail and I are so heartbroken for the family and will miss Curt dearly. So many good memories - with each other, our families, visits to Chicago, times with MSU brothers, and an unwavering loyalty for each other. Watching Curt the past 7 to 8 years gave me an example to follow in my life. His resiliency, courage and love for others will extend beyond his time here on earth. Love you, brother. We love you, Di.

- Dan Pucci

January 31, 2025 3:45pm
Curt…my super cool oldest cousin. As kids, family gatherings and holidays were guaranteed fun with Curt leading the cousin shenanigans. As we grew up, Curt always provided unwavering tremendous support not just to me, but to all who crossed his path. I’ll forever remember the last hug he gave me. I Love you cousin. Now go find Laura❤️

- Carrie McDowell




Order flowers for Curt's service.

Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

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