In Loving Memory of Donald James Curnow
February 14, 1960 – October 25, 2025

Donald James Curnow, born in Watervliet, Michigan, and raised Wisconsin-with a meaningful chapter spent in New Zealand-passed away after a several year battle with early onset Lewy Body Dementia. Don was a man of intellect and curiosity. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin Madison with a degree in chemical engineering, later earning his MBA from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. He spent his early career at Cargill first in Dayton, Ohio and then in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where he met his future wife, Ann Barnum. After obtaining his MBA his career moved to the medical device industry with various companies including Guidant and Boston Scientific. He ended his career at Be the Match. Don had a deep love for cooking, fine wine, and history. He was an avid bird watcher and an enthusiastic traveler with a special affection for England. A devoted fan of Rick Steves' travel guides-treated by Don as near scripture- he inspired laughter and good-natured teasing from his family for his unwavering admiration for all things Rick Steves. New Zealand held a special place in his heart, and one of his great wishes was to return there one day with his daughter Kerra. Though that journey remained unfulfilled, his spirit will accompany her when she takes that trip in his honor. He had hoped to see Kerra graduate this past spring from his beloved alma mater-another moment his illness took from him. At his request, no memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Don's memory are encouraged to donate to the Nature Conservancy, an organization close to his heart. He left us far too soon, but his passion, humor, and love will remain with those who knew him in the birdsong, shared meals, well-worn guidebooks, and the travels yet to come.