Cole B. Curtis, age 56, passed away peacefully on June 4th, 2017 at Bayfront Health in Dade City, FL with family by his side. Hard working, dedicated, loving and stubborn as hell; Cole grew up in Athens, New York where he made lifelong friends during his time at Coxsackie-Athens Central High School. As a teen he was a talented athlete who excelled at baseball where he received Rookie of the Year in 1974. A skilled mechanic, Cole had a passion for fixing up and racing cars, earning him several trophies for his efforts. He joined the military in 1979 as an Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician before becoming a special agent 10 years later, working for the Office of Special Investigations. Working around the world; from Japan, to Germany and most of Europe, across Africa, and ending in Turkey before coming back to the states and making Florida his home. As an AFOSI detective his job included many highlights, not least of which was meeting former President, Bill Clinton. His fellow agents had many nicknames for him, including "Bones" because of his tall and skinny build. He became a mentor for many as they made their way up the ranks of the department. Although he earned several awards for his dedication and excellence in his work, his most prized possessions were the simple gifts given by his daughters and grandchildren. Cole retired from the Air Force in May of 2000 after 20 years of service. His patriotism and work ethic he learned while in the military remained a key part of his personality to the very end. He loved chocolate labs, golfing, scuba diving, baseball, football and was an expert marksman. An eye for landscaping with a serious green thumb - he often had the best lawns and gardens in the neighborhood, even in the middle of the California desert. Mr. Curtis is survived by his two loving daughters: Nichole and Angela. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Dion and Aiden, his father Warren Curtis, mother Sharon, and two brothers, Scott and Ward Curtis. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Bayfront Health. Their dedication and effort to provide quality care and comfort in his last moments were a blessing. Cole will receive full Military Honors by active duty and veterans this Friday, June 9th at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Hope for the Warriors and Fisher House Foundation. The family of Cole Curtis is being served by Hodges Family Funeral Home, 11441 US-301, Dade City, FL 33525 where condolences can be received. Graveside Service

Florida National Cemetery

Friday, June 9, 2017 2:00 PM 6502 SW 102nd Avenue Bushnell, Florida 33513 Directions