Curtis Ray Papke
May 8, 1959
–
June 20, 2026
Curtis Ray Papke, 67, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, under
the care of Pikes Peak Hospice.
Born on May 8, 1959, in Williston, ND, Curtis was the second of six children born to Warren and
Rose Papke. The family later moved to Goodrich, ND, where Curtis excelled as a standout athlete
and student in school. Those early years reflected the determination and spirit that would guide him
throughout his life.
Curtis enjoyed a long and successful career as a Residential Facilities Maintenance Manager. His
professional journey took him from Fargo, ND, to Minneapolis, MN, before he eventually settled in
Colorado Springs, CO. In his later years, he moved in with his brother Ty, where he enjoyed reading,
watching classic TV and his all time favorite, NBA basketball.
In recent years, Curtis faced significant health challenges, including cardiopulmonary issues. In April
2026, he suffered a debilitating stroke that left his left side paralyzed. With these difficult health
issues, he remained in the care of Pikes Peak Hospice until his peaceful passing.
Curtis was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Papke, his grandparents, and many beloved
uncles, aunts, and cousins.
He is survived by his father, Warren Papke of Wahpeton, ND; his siblings: Tyrus Papke of Colorado
Springs, CO; Denise (Perry) Miller of Wahpeton, ND; Dennis (Vicky) Papke of Lafayette, IN; Candis
(Leigh) Bjore of Fargo, ND; and Darus Papke of Bismarck, ND; and many cherished nieces and
nephews, including: Courtland (Macy) Miller with children Winona and Elliott of St. Paul, MN; Carson
(Nicole) Miller with children Case and Mara of Fargo, ND; Abby Miller of Fargo, ND; Trisha (Dustin)
Folden with children Mackenna, Sawyer, and Rhys of Lafayette, IN; Logan (Abby) Bjore of West
Fargo, ND; Camryn Bjore of West Fargo, ND; Hunter Stone (Bryce Uline) and son Hesley of Mandan,
ND; and Jadea Sommer and daughters Winona, and Violet of Bismarck, ND.
Our family takes comfort knowing Curtis is at peace.
Celebration of Life Service July 13, 2026 11:00am – 2:00pm at the Bismarck Moose Lodge.