Curtis Bigelow

Curtis Irving Bigelow age 89 of Decorah, IA, formerly of Fredericksburg, IA, died Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Wellington Place Assisted Living in Decorah. A private family graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg with Scott Smith presiding. A celebration of life will be held Saturday October 21, 2023 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Pivo Brewery in Calmar (101 Huber Dr, Calmar, IA 52132). Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements. (563) 237-6212 Curtis Bigelow, beloved husband and father peacefully passed away on September 20th. He was born on October 4, 1933, in rural Chickasaw County, near Nashua, Iowa, to proud parents Orin and Lulu Bigelow. Curt was the third of four children, Curt's education was at Nashua Schools with graduation in 1952. He worked as a NHIA milk tester, farmer, Sumner City Clerk, petroleum driver for FS and Nashua Equity. In 1981, Curt took on a new venture by purchasing the cafe/truck stop restaurant in Nashua, which became known as Curt’s Parkway until 1992. His warm hospitality, delicious food and never ending cups of coffee for 25 cents made the restaurant a cherished gathering place. Curt's humor and personality left a lasting impression on all who dined there. On February 14, 1954, Curt married the love of his life, Wilma Steege, at Peace United Church of Christ in Fredericksburg. Their love was found in doing everything together - from remodeling homes to playing cards. Together, they welcomed two children into the world, Marc in 1958 and Janice in 1962, and raised them with love and care. Curt and Wilma did many crafts together during retirement such as wood working, oil painting, camping. He enjoyed reading, spending time with his family even if it meant helping with projects of his kids. One of Curt's greatest joys was spending time with his family, especially grandchildren. He enjoyed every moment shared with them by attending their school activities and visiting them whenever he could. Curt Bigelow was hardworking and a dedicated loving husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He had a witty sense of humor that was quick and could catch you off guard. Three times a week for the last five years, he went to dialysis which he called “his work” and enjoyed joking with his dialysis girls. His humor and kindness will be remembered and cherished forever. Curtis is survived by his son Marc(Linda) Bigelow of Reno, NV; daughter Janice(Duane) Baumler of Decorah; brother Elmer Bigelow of Vermont; and sister-in-laws Alice and Darlene Steege of Fredericksburg. Grandchildren Aaron Bigelow, Amber(Justin) Schoenbachler, Ben(Kylee) Bigelow, Amanda Sherburne, Kellen(Dara) Sherburne, and Garret Baumler, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Orin and Lulu; Wife Wilma; brother Ed Bigelow; sister Gennie Springer; brother-in-laws Lyle Steege, Gordon Springer, and Laverne Wendt; and sister-in-laws Ruth Wendt, Trudie Bigelow, and Jean Bigelow.