Carl C. Curran

Carl C. Curran, age 90, of Lafayette, passed away on March 29, 2025, at IU Health Hospital of Lafayette. Born on January 24, 1935, in Decatur, IL, Carl was the beloved son of the late Oral “Buck” and Velma “Betty” (Sanders) Curran. A proud graduate of A.J. Kent High School in 1953, Carl went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, stationed in Korea.

On August 7, 1955, Carl married the love of his life, Suzy M. Phegley, in Rensselaer. Together they shared 69 wonderful years. Carl was a successful businessman, owning and operating the Carl Curran Chevrolet Buick Dealership in Kentland from 1970 to 1989, as well as both Dino Restaurants for many years.

Carl was a man of many passions, including gardening, collecting sports memorabilia, and cheering for his favorite teams, the mighty Boilers and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He loved dancing the jitterbug and enjoyed sharing an ice-cold beer with friends while reminiscing about the good old days.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Suzy, and their two daughters, Carla (John) Mitzner Gillespie and Colleen (Mark) Gasvoda. Carl was a proud grandfather to Carsi (Todd) Mitzner Wiseman, Clarke C. Mitzner, and Brock C. Gasvoda, and a loving great-grandfather to Lilly Mitzner, Owen Rittenhouse, Cora, and Dean Wiseman. He is also survived by his sister, Joetta L. Murphy of New Jersey.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Buck and Betty Curran. A visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 PM (CST) on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home of Kentland. Interment with military rites will follow in Fairlawn Cemetery of Kentland.

Memorial contributions may be made in Carl’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.