“If music be the food of love, play on. Give me excess of it.” - Twelfth Night
Kurtis Stephen Blaihut – October 28, 1939 – August 11, 2012.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother and uncle.
Kurtis was born in Trail, BC to Lorna and Charles Blaihut. He was educated in Trail and later at the University of Victoria, earning a degree in teaching. He taught at Fruitvale Elementary School for 25 years and Montrose School for 10 years, retiring at the age of 58. He was a born teacher and a mentor to many.
He leaves to mourn him; his sisters Sandra Colangeli and Wendy McLaughlin, nieces; Lisa (Gord) Douglas, Tracy McLaughlin (Denis), Gianna Colangeli (Daryl), nephew; Todd McLaughlin (Amy), and great niece Caylee. Kurtis is also survived by his cousins Butch (Ena) Boutry and family, Sheila Ewings and family, Mary-Anne, Janet and Elizabeth and family, Arlene (John) Sorenson and family. He was predeceased by his three beloved brothers-in-law, Lino Colangeli, Larry McLaughlin and Lonnie Plasko whom he well loved.
Kurtis had a wonderful “circle of friends” who were so very good to us all. Laurie, Dick, Donna, Marilyn, Barb, Carol, Audrey, Rob and Helen-to name a few. His school friends Don (Marlene) Recchi and George (Donna) Arneson, who stayed in touch until the very end-you are in our hearts forever. Kurtis’ Vancouver friends, too numerous to mention, but love and thanks to you all.
Other people in Trail have won the Met Opera Quiz but the passing of Kurtis in August marked a milestone in this city’s long history with the arts. Drama, vocal, ballet and film performances, now viewed at the Royal Theatre and the Charles Bailey Auditorium have lost a loyal and knowledgeable patron. Teaching and encouraging others to understand the classics was eagerly undertaken by Kurtis. His presence and knowledge will be sorely missed.
A Celebration of Kurtis’ life will be held in the Archives Room of the Colombo Lodge on Rossland Avenue, Trail on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at 7:00 pm. We look forward to seeing you all to celebrate his life.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Sanctuary or a charity of your choice.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca
“My tongue is weary when my legs are too. I bid you all good-night” ~ Henry V, William Shakespeare.