East Aurora Advertiser

Obituary: Curtis R. Pitcher, Man of Faith, Beekeeper


Curtis R. Pitcher

June 18, 1933-June 9, 2019

Curtis Raymond Pitcher, an East Aurora resident known to many as “Curt,” died on Sunday, June 9, just shy of his 86th birthday.

Mr. Pitcher was predeceased by his daughters Pamela (Keith) Borden and Paulette (Burt) Fitzienger; siblings Tom Pitcher, Bob Pitcher and Corinne Ostrowski.

He is survived by his wife Betty (née Kleiser Minkler) Pitcher; children Mark (Kim) Pitcher, Rebecca (James) Kayorie and John (Joanne) Pitcher; stepchildren Christian Minkler and Catherine Minkler (Oren) Gruber. He was also blessed with his wife’s stepsons Daniel (Darla), David (Kathryn), Paul (Karin), Peter (Bonnie) and Andrew (Norma) Minkler and many nieces, nephews and grandchildren. 

Mr. Pitcher worked for many years as an assembler at Moog, Inc., including work on the Space Shuttle. Among his passions were basketball, fishing, beekeeping, motorcycles, gardening, playing the accordion and going to church. He loved Jesus and loved to tell others of his faith. 

As a beekeeper, he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and skills with local children, visiting schools and church youth groups. 

Funeral services were held on Sat., June 15 at St. Matthew’s United Church of Christ in Hamburg. 

Memorial donations may be given to the charity of your choosing. 

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