Curt Arliss Gleaves, 66, of Portland, Oregon, passed away at his home on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. Curt was born on July 29, 1955, in Longview, Washington, and grew up in North Portland. He was the only boy of five children of Leland and Gloria (Dietz) Gleaves.
At a young age, Curt developed a love for sports. He would spend his youth playing baseball, football, and basketball. His desire and devotion helped him excel as he played, ultimately becoming an excellent amateur baseball player. Curt passed his love of sports onto his children, leaving a lasting legacy.
Upon graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1973, Curt continued his education at the University of Utah and Brigham Young University, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Microbiology in 1983. He was a talented molecular scientist, researching and working at the Mayo Clinic, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Providence Medical Center, and Southwest Washington Medical Center. Curt was a diligent and conscientious research and developer and had a distinguished career specializing in viruses.
Curt loved traveling, listening to blues music, and reading. He shared these passions with friends and family. His recommendation of where to find little missed gems while traveling, a guitar player, and a good book were always welcomed and will be remembered. He enjoyed exploring the arts through painting and photography these last several years.
He is survived by seven children: Patrick Gleaves (Leslie), Natalie Gleaves, B.J. Gleaves, Nick Gleaves, Andrea Gleaves, Brittney Peay (Jake), and Courtney Sessions (Matt). His ten grandchildren: Jalen Gleaves, Halle Gleaves, Tatem Gleaves, Asher Gleaves, Remington Peay, Lucas Sessions, Scarlett Sessions, Tommy Sessions, Emma Gleaves, and Kovi Banks. Four Sisters: Susan Gleaves Cohen, Glorie Cordier, Toni Mason (John), and Stephanie Potter (Bob). He was preceded in death by his mother Gloria (Dietz) Gleaves and his father, Leland Gleaves.
At 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, a small family memorial service will be held at the River View Cemetery (300 South Taylors Ferry Road, Portland, OR 97219). You may share your condolences and remembrances online through the cemetery. In addition, an origami crane in his honor will be displayed at the Chapel in memory of Curt.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Curt’s name to NAMI Oregon, Northwest Family Services, or American Diabetes Association.
7 Condolences for Curt Arliss Gleaves
Condolences(7)
ROBERT M BEAGLEY says
January 10, 2022 at 4:21 pmI will remember Curt as a friend and a loving caring Father. I pray that Cindy and my nieces and nephews will take comfort in knowing that our loving father in Heaven knows who you are and is pleased with you, and loves each of you unconditionally. Please know that my family loves you guys tons.
Jim Paynter says
January 13, 2022 at 4:10 amMy condolences to the entire Gleaves family. I knew Curt when we were kids playing little league baseball, but it was years later in our teens when he became one of my best friends. I remember with great fondness those days of the early 70s, whether it was having fun on Omaha street, picking strawberries, riding bikes, or playing tackle football at the park (in the mud). We would always hang out at his house because he had the biggest porch in North Portland. When I was old enough to drive, we spent many summer days at Blue Lake Park swimming. Curt had a curiosity about things that I loved and a keen sense humor. He would laugh at something first, then we would laugh, and then we couldn’t stop laughing. We lost touch after those early teen years, but I am so glad to see he had a career he enjoyed and some successes in life. Rest in peace my friend!
Dr and Mrs B says
January 27, 2022 at 1:15 amOur condolences to the Gleaves family on his passing away at a time when retirement with the family is so precious. We new Curt for many years and his passion for Virology offered countless contributions to our profession. He was an invaluable speaker at an International medical workshop for me early in his career. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Many prayers to the family from my wife and I.
Dr. Ted E. Schutzbank says
January 27, 2022 at 5:03 pmI was so very sorry to hear of Curt’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and prayers. I knew Curt for many years through our association with the Clinical Virology Symposium, and as fellow virologists. I had the pleasure of visiting Curt’s lab in Portland several years ago. Unfortunately we lost touch when Curt when he left the lab, but often thought of him, and his many contributions to the field of virology that we both loved. He will be truly missed by all of his friends and colleagues.
Lindsay Willoughby says
June 21, 2022 at 12:55 amBye, Curt
Irma Beitz says
May 19, 2022 at 8:32 pmMy condolences and prayers to Curt’s loved ones. When I began my career in the scientific world, Curt was one of my first customers, who became a dear friend. I met him when the Clinical Virology Symposium began, back in Clearwater, FL. I have the fondest memories of great times with Curt. I was able to visit him in Oregon and he was able to teach me a lot, beyond offering a great friendship. I am so sorry he is gone and will cherish the memories of friendship.
Lindsay Willoughby says
June 21, 2022 at 12:55 amBye, Curt