Walter F. Currie, a respected engineer and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the age of 91, following a courageous decade-long battle with cancer. Surrounded by family, Currie’s death marks the end of a life characterized by unwavering dedication to his loved ones and significant contributions to the engineering field.
Born on February 11, 1934, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Floyd and Stella Currie, Walter, affectionately known as Walt, was the only son in his family. His early years in Louisville laid the foundation for a life filled with achievement and community engagement.
At the age of 16, Currie experienced a pivotal moment when he met Catherine Louise Shelburn, a fellow student at Atherton High School. Their connection blossomed into a lifelong partnership that began with shared classes and culminated in their marriage. Both graduated from high school and continued their education at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, where Currie pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering.
Career Milestones and Achievements
Currie’s academic journey led him to join the Air Force ROTC and pledge Phi Delta Theta fraternity, ultimately graduating in 1956. His passion for engineering propelled him to establish Currie Aerospace Associates in 1961, an independent sales organization that represented various national electronics manufacturers. The company started in a modest setting, operating from a spare bedroom in their home on Louvre Avenue in Lake Conway Estates, with Currie serving as the main sales engineer and Catherine stepping in as secretary.
As the business grew, it evolved into Currie, Peak, and Frazier, Inc., expanding to employ 36 individuals. Throughout his career, Currie remained a steadfast supporter of the University of Kentucky, regularly donating to the institution and passionately cheering for its athletic teams. His commitment to the university exemplified his pride in his Kentucky roots and his belief in the importance of education.
Currie’s legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, deeply invested in the lives of his family. He was particularly proud of his two sons, Scott Currie of Mosier, Oregon, and Beau Currie of Windermere, Florida, as well as his five grandchildren: Trevor Currie, Lucas Currie, Charles Summers, Nathan Currie, and Amanda Summers. His enthusiasm for life and learning was evident in his eagerness to support their educational pursuits, believing that understanding how things work was essential for personal growth.
Memorial Plans and Lasting Impact
Currie’s family has planned a private memorial service at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, where he will be interred next to his parents in a section of the cemetery arranged by Colonel George E. Currie in 1894. This final resting place holds significance, reflecting both his family’s history and his profound connection to his hometown.
Walter F. Currie will be remembered as a tenacious individual whose contributions to engineering and unwavering love for his family have left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. His passing is a profound loss, not only for his family but also for the community that he served with dedication and pride.
