Curtis Leigh Hein, a beloved son, brother, and friend, filled our lives with joy from the moment he was born on November 25, 1964, in Elbow Lake, MN. The cherished son of Gilbert and Betty (Scholtz) Hein, Curtis spent his early years growing up on a farm in Morris, MN, before moving to Eugene, OR, where his vibrant spirit continued to bloom. After several years, the family made their way to Audubon, MN, where Curtis attended school, surrounded by the warmth of caring friends and classmates who embraced him just as he was.
A graduate of Fergus Falls High School in 1985; Curtis’s intelligence shone through in his love for mathematics. His playful nature surfaced in countless games of canasta, and perhaps with a wink of mischief, he would occasionally try to sneak a win in solitaire, having learned seven variations from his father. Notably, his remarkable memory enabled him to navigate the world with ease, always knowing the way even to the most unfamiliar places.
In 1984, Curtis found a second home at Prairie Community Services in Fergus Falls, where he was surrounded by a community that nurtured and valued him for 42 wonderful years. Here, among loving caregivers and residents, Curtis’s life was filled with laughter and joy. From bowling nights and movie outings to meals shared with friends, each moment was a testament to the bonds he formed. His work at Productive Alternatives further inspired him, where he skillfully managed paper shredding, packaging, and assembling rain gauges.
Curtis took delight in his favorite treats; nothing made him happier than a can of Mountain Dew and a can of Pringles, which he eagerly added to his mother’s grocery list. He had a deep affection for horses and undeniable joy for family gatherings. He mastered his tablet which allowed his communication skills to flourish through writing and sign language, allowing him to connect meaningfully with loved ones, and he thoroughly enjoyed traveling, experiencing adventures both with his family and his newfound friends at the group home.
In his final hours of life, Curtis was enveloped with his family at his side, and several of his caregivers who came to share their hearts with him and the family. He departed this world unexpectedly on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Lake Region Hospital in Fergus Falls, MN, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love, laughter, and resilience.
Curtis will be profoundly missed, but the joy he brought to our lives will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Let us remember him not just for his challenges but for the immeasurable love he shared and the spirit that inspired us all.
Curtis is survived by his parents, Gil and Betty Hein of Moorhead, MN; two sisters: Tami (Daniel) Dobmeier of Fargo, ND, and Nancy (Joe Kolo) Hein-Kolo of Moorhead; nieces and nephews: Kristen Shaw, Laura Houlton, Emma Kolo, Grace Kolo, and Sam Kolo; and his second family and friends from Douglas Home in Fergus Falls who meant so much to him.
A service to honor Curtis is being planned for July. The dates will be published here when it is set.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.KorsmoFuneralService.com
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