Obituary of Curtis Weinreis

Curtis Dean Weinreis, 56 of North Branch, MN, died Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013 at his home, surrounded by and in the loving arms of his children and wife. Curt was born on October 6, 1956 in Morris, the son of Jim and Doris (Kloos) Weinreis, the third of three children. His parents owned a little cafe in Donnelly Minnesota. They lived above the restaurant until they purchased a small farm just outside of town. Curt had fond memories of the local farmers coming in for morning coffee and afternoons spent playing cards. One dearest to Curt's heart was Francis Ward. Francis was like a father to him. He taught him how to fish, hunt and was influential in Curt's early career decisions. Francis quickly became a grandfather figure after Curt's children were born. He loved driving his go-cart, running around Donnelly with his friends. He purchased his first car at the age of 16. This was the beginning of his love for classic cars which included his beloved Purple People Eater - 57 chevy and then his 63 Chevy SS. Curt started work early in life, he picked rocks and mopped floors. During and after high school, Curt drove gravel truck before moving to Minneapolis where he earned an Associates Degree in Electronics. Over the years Curt repaired juke-boxes, video machines and most recently parking gates at Don Harstad's Controls in Fridley. On July 18, 1974, at age 17, he married the love of his life, Jeanie Demo of Morris. They've been blessed with four children, eight grandchildren, and counting. Curt devoted his life to taking care of and providing for his wife and children. At times, he was a stay at home Dad. He nurished and loved his children dearly - Bill, Jason, Paula and Travis. He's a very proud father as he saw his children grow, celebrated in their achievements, became a friend and a wonderful grandfather. Family activities included vacations (with and without children) to Florida, Vegas, Wisconsin Dells , trips to the casino and family events. He loved playing various computer games with the boys going back to the first Nintendo games made decades ago. This past year his relationship grew deeper in the true meaning of life and love. Curt spent time praying with many family members; his prayer time was for others first. Curt's walk with Jesus has been life long yet it was at this past year that he trusted Jesus to be his Lord and Savior. His favorite Scripture verse was Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Curt knew that if he wasn't healed on this earth that he would receive a new body in heaven. He fought a hard battle this past year with pancreatic cancer. Until his last day on January 23rd, he made sure that he told everyone that he loved them and encouraged them. His smile and positive energy filled the room. Curt will be most remembered by his huge smile and outgoing personality. Curt is survived by his wife, Jeanie Weinreis; children, William of North Branch, Paula Kneeland (Jesse) of Plymouth, and Travis (Gina) of Big Lake; father and mother, Jim and Doris; mother-in-law, Patricia Demo; grandchildren, Arielle, Hannah, Grace, Seth, Hope, Aaron, Dominic, and baby Kneeland; sister, Carol (Kevin) Brown; brother, Richard (Mary-Jo); brother-in-law, Jeff Demo; sisters-in-law, Lori Riley, Lynn (Paul) Koenen, Jackie Demo; numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. Curt is preceded in death by his son Jason, his father-in-law and grandparents.