Walter F. Currie, a dedicated engineer and family patriarch, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous ten-year battle with cancer. He was 91 years old. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on February 11, 1934, Walt was the only son of Floyd and Stella Currie. Throughout his life, he remained deeply connected to his Kentucky roots.
Walt’s journey began in 1950 when he met Catherine Louise Shelburn, a fellow student at Atherton High School. Their relationship blossomed during their teenage years, leading them to graduate together and attend the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Walt pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering, joining the Air Force ROTC and pledging to Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He graduated in 1956, marking the beginning of a fruitful career.
After completing his education, Walt founded Currie Aerospace Associates in 1961. This independent sales organization represented various national electronics manufacturers. The company started from modest beginnings, operating out of a spare bedroom in their rented home on Louvre Avenue in Lake Conway Estates. Walt took on the role of sales engineer, while Catherine managed administrative tasks. Over time, the company grew and was later renamed Currie, Peak, and Frazier, Inc., ultimately employing 36 individuals.
Throughout his life, Walt remained a passionate supporter of the University of Kentucky. He was a lifelong fan of the UK Wildcats, frequently donning the school’s colors and contributing generously to its athletic programs. His dedication to education extended beyond his own achievements; he encouraged his family’s pursuit of knowledge and was always eager to share his expertise.
Walt was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He took immense pride in his family, closely following their accomplishments and providing unwavering support. His belief in the importance of understanding how things work led him to teach and mentor those around him. Friends and family remember him as a private yet resilient man, whose presence will be profoundly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine Currie; two sons, Scott Currie (Liz) of Mosier, Oregon, and Beau Currie (Mary) of Windermere, Florida; and five grandchildren: Trevor Currie (Annie) of Missoula, Montana, Lucas Currie of Playa Grande, Costa Rica, Charles Summers (Anastasiya) of New York City, New York, Nathan Currie of Hailey, Idaho, and Amanda Summers (Geri) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
A private memorial service will be held at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, where Walt’s cremated remains will be interred alongside his parents, Floyd and Stella Currie. This section of the cemetery was originally arranged by Colonel George E. Currie in 1894. The family invites those wishing to honor Walt’s memory to consider planting a living memorial in his name.
