MADISON - Curtis “Curt” Shawkey, age 80, of Madison, Wis., passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, at Agrace Hospice. Curt succumbed to kidney failure after a life marked by love, service, and dedication to his family. Curt had a zest for life and an incredible will to live.

Curt was born on February 6, 1944, in Madison to Howard and Marinda Shawkey. He graduated from Central High School in Madison in 1962 and later earned his degree from Lakeland College. Curt had a long and fulfilling career with the Madison Water Utility where he worked for 39 years, retiring in 2002.

In 1964, he met the light of his life, Karen Dvorak, and they were married on February 5, 1966. Together, they built a loving partnership spanning nearly six decades.

In 1968 and 1969, Curt honorably served his country in Vietnam with the 826th Ordnance Company. Though he always dreamed of participating in a Badger Honor Flight, Curt’s health prevented him from making the journey. Nevertheless, his service and sacrifices for his country remain an enduring legacy and something he was deeply proud of.

Curt and Karen started square dancing with the Westport Squares beginning in 1976 and enjoyed square dancing together for nearly five decades, creating countless memories with friends. Curt was also an active member of the Badger Stamp Club, where he served as treasurer, sharing his passion for stamp collecting with fellow enthusiasts.

Family was central to Curt’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; daughters, Kris (Jim) Dockter and Kathy (Bill) Miller; and his cherished grandson, Cameron Miller. One of his greatest joys was watching Cameron grow up, and he expressed how proud he was of the man Cameron had become. He is also survived by his sister, Dawn Shawkey; brother, Bruce Shawkey; and sister-in-law, Shirley Ewert. Curt was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Marinda Shawkey; and his in-laws, Frank and Clara Dvorak.

Curt’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional caregivers who supported him in his final months. Special thanks to UW Hospital’s main campus, including the trauma team, Med Flight, the ICU, and the Intermediate Care unit; Meriter Hospital’s 11 Tower team; and Maddie (RN) and Hector (CNA) for their compassionate care during Curt’s transition to hospice. The family is grateful to Agrace Hospice for their support and kindness.

Curt’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, and strength. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service will be held at LAKE EDGE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4032 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, with Pastor Justin Dittrich presiding. A luncheon will follow at the church. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Burial will take place at HIGHLAND MEMORY GARDENS, 3054 County Highway BB, Cottage Grove, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Memorials can be directed to Lake Edge Lutheran Church or the UnityPoint Meriter Foundation. If you choose the Meriter Foundation, memorials can be given at the service or completed online at: https://give.unitypoint.org/give/573070/#!/donation/checkout. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Curt N Shawkey

February 06, 1944 - January 27, 2025

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