Curtis Wallace Kittleson

Curtis “Curt” Wallace Kittleson, 89, of Manitowoc passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

Curt was born on August 22, 1936 in Barron County to the late Henry and Vivian Victoria (Gray) Kittleson. He was a graduate of Cameron High School and furthered his education receiving his bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire and his master’s degree in education from UW-Oshkosh. Curt served his country in the United States Army from 1958-1964. On December 21, 1958, he married Annette Ostermann. She preceded him in death on April 7, 2021. Curt was a dedicated and passionate teacher, administrator and ended his career as Principal at Madison Elementary School in Manitowoc, retiring in 1995. Following his retirement he enjoyed running the Rahr Memorial School Forest. 

Curt was a faithful member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. He enjoyed woodworking, particularly making birdhouses, camping, traveling, gardening, and planting trees. He was passionate about teaching his grandchildren, and loved collecting books and studying genealogy. His family and faith were his everything.

Curt is survived by his children: Mark (Lee Ann) Kittleson, Jodell Gawron, Kim (Don) Hafeman, Jess Kittleson, Susanna Kittleson, and Douglas (Melinda) Kittleson; grandchildren: Zane (Taylor) Kittleson, Matthew Kittleson, Evan Gawron, Natalie Gawron, Justin (Mackenzie) Hafeman, Aaron (Yuki) Hafeman, Connor Hafeman, Jasmine Kittleson, Elijah Terrell, Lexie Kobel, and Abigail Glende; one great-grandchild: Caina Elizabeth Hafeman; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Rosalie Kittleson, Steve (Holly) Ostermann, Gene (Kay) Ostermann, and Sharon Ostermann. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Curt was preceded in death by his parents: Henry and Victoria Kittleson; wife: Annette Kittleson; daughter: Shannon Kittleson; son-in-law: Mark Gawron; grandson: Casey Hafeman; brothers and sisters: Erwin Kittleson, Mavis (LaVerne) Davis, and Darrel Kittleson; parents-in-law: Emil and Alma Ostermann; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Norman (Jan) Ostermann, Carolynn (Michael) Kobiske; and Jerry Ostermann.

A funeral service to celebrate Curt’s life will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:30 am at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1712 Menasha Ave, Manitowoc, with Rev. Jonathan Huehn officiating. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Friday, October 24, 2025 at the church from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:30am. Curt will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by AmVets Post 99.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com

The Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Pfeffer location, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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