Patricia Curtis, 81; Teacher, Mentor

Fun-loving teacher and mentor Patricia ‘Pat’ (Gleixner) Curtis died peacefully on March 31, at St. John’s Hospital of an incurable illness. She was 81. The only child of Anna Mae and Tony Gleixner, Pat was born on May 20, 1926 in Chicago. She attended Chicago’s Immaculata High School and went on to Northwestern, where she joined Chi Omega sorority. After graduation, she moved to Albuquerque, where she enrolled in the University of New Mexico graduate program and met her future husband, Luke Curtis. Following World War II, the newlyweds traveled to Europe to continue graduate study at the University of Geneva. After their daughter Karen was born, they moved back to the U.S. and settled in Arcadia. A natural mentor, Pat pursued her teaching and counseling credential, and went on to teach at Alverno Heights Academy in Sierra Madre. Later she became a career counselor with the Los Angeles Unified School District. Some of her fondest memories were of her time as a counselor at El Sereno Junior High School in East L.A., and South Gate High School. She touched many; always the passionate professional, she preached her motto, ‘Do what you love.’ Pat moved to Pacific Palisades in 1990 to be closer to family. Upon retirement, she became actively involved in the Corpus Christi Parish Seniors Group, the Palisades Library Association, the League of Women Voters, and the Newcomers group. Forever seeking new adventures, she traveled abroad frequently with her travel group, Les Girls. ‘Patty Play-pal’ will be remembered for her ability to befriend all, her fun-loving nature, her inspiring determination, and her endless love and support of family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Davis (husband Robert) formerly of Pacific Palisades, now of Coto de Caza; granddaughters Michelle and Danielle; and grandson Bryan. A memorial Mass will be held on Friday, April 4, at 11 a.m. at Corpus Christi Church. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent to the California Province of the Society of Jesus: (408) 884-1644 and www.jesuitscalifornia.org.