Curtis Lynn McKnight, 50

Alamosa resident, Curtis Lynn McKnight, 50, passed away peacefully at home on December 25, 2017.  He was born in Alamosa, Colorado, on June 7, 1967, to Roger Lynn McKnight and Virginia Hardy McKnight. 

Curtis was a Class of 1985 graduate of Alamosa High School.  After high school graduation, he enlisted in the U. S. Army and was stationed in Giessen, West Germany.  Curtis was honored to have served his country, having followed in the footsteps of his father, older brother, and numerous McKnights before him.  Curtis worked in security most of his life, having enjoyed many years living in Las Vegas, NV and working at various casinos.

In 2012, Curtis suffered a major heart attack.  While this caused physical damage to his body, it strengthened his love of life and those around him.  He discovered a newfound peace and humility and the value of making each moment count.

In 2014, Curtis moved back to Alamosa near his mother and siblings.  There he worked daily with a smile, happy and proud to be working with his older brother, Craig, at Hard Rock Concrete and Design. 

Curtis was a simple kind of guy and it didn’t take much to make him happy, always reminding us to “smile, Sunshine”.  His grin could light up a room and his hugs were always warm and full of love.  He never shied away from an adventure, misadventure or mischief.  Curtis never missed an opportunity to make someone smile, to flirt with a pretty girl, lovingly embarrass his mother, or remind us to be kind by saying “Don’t be a d**k”.  He was a person you only had to meet once to never forget.  He will be loved and missed by all who knew him.

Curtis is survived by his three sons:  Cody L. (Allissa), McKnight, Hill City, KS; Kevin J. McKnight, Buckeye, AZ; and Ryan D. McKnight, Las Vegas, NV; his mother, Virginia (Lewis) Martin, brother, Craig McKnight, and sister, Shannon McKnight, all of Alamosa;  and his two grandchildren, Andrea J. and Emitt R. McKnight.  He is also survived by nieces and nephews Jessica L. (Wayne) Lingle, Kirsten L. (Drew) Lilienthal, Jacob L. McKnight, Shea L. McKnight, and his “special princess and pancake maker” Ayva Brooklyn of Las Vegas, NV.  He is also survived by beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and other numerous relatives.

Curtis was preceded in death by his father, Roger L. McKnight; his maternal grandparents, Frank and Sadie Hardy; and his paternal grandparents, Glen and Eva McKnight.

Cremation was chosen and a Celebration of Life to honor Curtis will be held Saturday, February 3 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., at the Elks Lodge in Alamosa.  Everyone is invited to come and mingle with friends and family and share memories, laughter and tears as Curt would have enjoyed.

In lieu of flowers, do what makes you smile.  Condolences can be mailed to the family in care of Lewis and Virginia Martin, 9644 County Road 100 South, Alamosa, CO 81101