Helen "Jan" Curtiss

Helen “Jan” Curtiss passed away on November 18, 2022 with her loving family by her side. She was born in Montreal, Canada on May 20, 1944, the daughter of Edward Grant Dartnell Macpherson and Eileen Pridden Hartney Macpherson. 

Due to her father being a Harbor Master, Jan loved being on the water whether it was swimming, sailing, canoeing and she loved seeing lighthouses.  Her life revolved around education – both her own continuing education as well as being a Chicago Public school teacher for many years.  She always had a book she was reading and loved letters – both writing and receiving them. 

A few of her favorite things…  popcorn, chocolate ice cream shakes, donuts, Elton John, Lionel Richie, being naughty, hot dogs, vodka tonics – tall with a lime, infectious belly laughs, lighthouses, Nantucket and Bermuda.

Jan is survived by her beloved daughters, Katie (Bob) Johnson and Molly (John) Baxter; her cherished grandchildren, Kennedy, Charlie and James; her dear sister, Mary (Jerry) Golden and her beloved cat “Mr. Big”.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Kathryn (Tony) Bohannon.

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch it we are going back from whence we came.”

 - John F. Kennedy 

She loved parties, drinks, good food and great friends.  A party in her honor will be held in early January.  This page will be updated once confirmed.

For further information please contact Willow Funeral Home & Cremation Care in Algonquin at (847) 458-1700.

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