John “Curt” Curtis Dahle died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 24, 2016 in Maple Valley, WA at the age of 94, just shy of his 95th birthday.
Curt is survived by his children, grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren along with several nieces & nephews. Children; daughter Corrine (Steve) Howells, son Ron Ledgerwood of Maple Valley; grandchildren, Jeff (Nadia) Ledgerwood of Edgewood, Steven (Kimberly) Howells, Christina (Eddie) Rauenhorst, Megan (Joe) Moore of Kent, and John (Mini) Howells of Maple Valley. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Gwen of 49 years; son Rich Ledgerwood; sisters Marie Wellman and Delores Williams; brother Victor Dahle.
Curt was born on February 2, 1922 in Dodge City, MN to John & Cora Dahle. Curt was a proud World War II veteran who served in the US Navy from 1942 to 1944 as a First Class Electricians Mate on the submarine USS Sea Dragon. Curt graduated from the University of Washington in 1950 with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Business Administration. He married Gwendolyn (Gwen) L. Losee in 1951 and they spent 49 wonderful years together. In 1951, he began working as an accountant for Frederick & Nelson but discovered his love for carpentry and changed careers. Curt joined the Carpenters Union Local 1797 (now Local 30) July 5, 1955. He worked at Canyon Mill for many years building custom homes and moved into Commercial Construction around 1970. He enjoyed working on commercial construction sites with his son-in-law Steve for many years. He retired from the Union April 1, 1993 at the age 71. Curt resided in Kent for 56 years before moving to Maple Valley to live with his daughter and son-in-law in 2011.
Curt enjoyed Bowling, Golf, walking, razor clam digging and spending time with his family. His children and grandchildren remember him as quiet, with a dry sense of humor and a teacher with great patience who instilled in all his strong work ethic and family values. As a person who grew up in the Great Depression, Curt was passionate about saving money and providing for his family. He and his witty remarks will truly be missed.
Visitation will be held from 3-5 pm Thursday, January 5th A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for 12:30 pm January 6th at Marlatt Funeral Home in Kent followed by a grave side service at Tahoma National Cemetery. Pastor Dennis Stebly will officiate the ceremonies. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Curt’s life. Condolences can be sent to www.marlattfuneralhome.com
