Obituary of Rev. Michael J. Curran

Reverend Michael J. Curran, 71, passed away into the arms of the Lord on August 28, 2018, after an extended illness.  Michael was born to Robert and Ruth Curran on August 10, 1947, grew up in Naugatuck, CT, and graduated from Naugatuck High School and New Haven University.  Father Michael was an Episcopal priest at Christ Episcopal Church in Bethlehem, CT. He was married to Paula Price in Alaska on June 23, 2012.  Father Michael was also an active member of the Episcopal Church of Connecticut and a veteran of the United States Army. 

Michael Curran was predeceased in death by his father Robert Curran, mother Ruth Curran, and his beloved St. Bernard, Petunia.  Michael was an avid reader – a lover of books and writing, and an amateur photographer - a passion he learned from his dad. Michael also spoke six languages and loved cooking and animals.  He cherished spending time with his wife Paula and his beloved St. Bernard Rosie.  After graduating from New Haven University, Michael served in the Army in Vietnam and Germany, often as a translator.  Upon returning from military service, Michael began his civilian life as a teacher on a Navajo reservation in Shonto, Arizona, before moving to Alaska where he continued teaching in several isolated Alaskan Native villages.  Michael continued his service to others when he embarked on his journey in the Episcopal ministry and was a priest in Seward, AK, prior to moving back to his roots in CT. 

In addition to his wife Paula, Father Michael Curran is survived by his brother Timothy (Marsha) Curran, sister Patricia (David) Gelmini,

Cyndy Curran, son Christopher Curran, daughter Meaghan Curran, and Rosie.  Father Michael also leaves to cherish his memory his Uncle Buddy Piper, niece Amy, several cousins, and many friends.

Michael’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the family of nurses and personal care attendants at St. Mary’s Hospital, Yale New Haven Hospital, Luthern Home of Southbury, and Vitas In-Patient Hospice for their loving care of our beloved Michael during his extended illness.  Special thanks to Doctors Kett, Zlotoff, Cusano, and Elser for their assistance and support during Michael’s illness.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Christ Episcopal Church of Bethlehem, PO Box 520, Bethlehem, CT, 06751.

Those who wish to pay their respects may do so at a celebration of life service on Saturday, September 29, at 10:00 A.M. at Christ Episcopal Church of Bethlehem, Village Green 45 Main Street South, Bethlehem, CT 06751.  Reception will follow in the parish hall.