Curtis Ray Thayer, age 75, of Lansing, MI passed away very peacefully, surrounded by loved ones Wed, Aug 9, 2023. He fought a courageous battle after a recent cancer diagnosis. Curtis was born in St. Johns on Feb 23, 1948. He was married to his wife, Linda Marie Thayer, for 47 years. He served in the U.S. Navy for 3 years. Curtis retired from General Motors Milford Proving Grounds as a Test Driver of 34 years. He was a devoted volunteer firefighter with the DeWitt Township Fire Department for 36 years where he earned the nickname “Frog” and received the Citizen of the Year award from the Township for helping in the community.
Curtis enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending quality time with his grandchildren. He was well liked by everyone he met and will always be remembered for his humor and caring nature. He took pride in his landscaping, always having the best yard in the park. He enjoyed riding his scooter, patrolling the park, and relaxing on his porch with his cup of coffee. Curtis was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed riding his Harley. In his free time, he loved watching tv, especially older shows.
Surviving are his son, Jeremy Thayer; daughter, Jamilyn Hoffman; grandchildren, Ethan Thayer, Chloe Hoffman, Gage Hoffman, and Payton Stidham; brothers, Randy Thayer and Kevin (Carmen) Thayer; sister, Connie (Vadel) Isham; brother in law, Alan (Cheryl) Niznak; sister in law, Karen (Rod) Vroman; brother in law, Brian (Sue) Niznak; sister in law, Connie (Pat) Wieferich; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; parents, Raymond and Jean Thayer; brother in law, Paul (Val) Niznak; parents in law, Mike and Mary Niznak.
A memorial service will be held at 12 pm on Fri, Aug 25, 2023, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes DeWitt chapel with visitation from 4 to 8 pm on Thu, Aug 24th.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Sparrow Hospice or a charity of choice.