Walter F. Currie, a respected engineer and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the age of 91. Surrounded by family, he concluded a courageous ten-year battle with cancer. A lifelong resident of Louisville, Kentucky, Currie was known for his strong ties to his hometown and his commitment to his family and profession.
Born on February 11, 1934, to Floyd and Stella Currie, Walter was the only son in his family. His formative years were marked by a significant meeting in 1950 with Catherine Louise Shelburn, a classmate from Atherton High School. Their relationship blossomed during their teenage years, leading them to attend the University of Kentucky together, where Currie pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering. He graduated in 1956, having been an active member of the Air Force ROTC and the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
In 1961, Currie founded Currie Aerospace Associates, an independent sales organization that represented national electronics manufacturers. The company began in the spare bedroom of their rented house in Lake Conway Estates. Currie served as the company’s sales engineer while Catherine took on the role of secretary. Under his leadership, the business grew and was eventually renamed Currie, Peak, and Frazier, Inc, employing 36 people at its peak.
Currie’s connection to his alma mater remained strong throughout his life. He was an avid supporter of the University of Kentucky, often donning Kentucky Blue and attending athletic events. His dedication to education extended to his family, as he consistently encouraged their academic pursuits and believed in the importance of understanding the world around them.
Walter Currie’s legacy is deeply rooted in his family. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Currie, as well as his two sons, Scott Currie of Mosier, Oregon, and Beau Currie of Windermere, Florida. He took pride in his five grandchildren: Trevor Currie of Missoula, Montana; Lucas Currie of Playa Grande, Costa Rica; Charles Summers of New York City; Nathan Currie of Hailey, Idaho; and Amanda Summers of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His family recalls him as a durable and private man, whose knowledge and wisdom will be sorely missed.
A private memorial service will take place at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, where Currie’s cremated remains will be interred next to his parents in a section of the cemetery originally arranged by Colonel George E. Currie in 1894. Family members remember him not just for his professional accomplishments, but for his unwavering love and support throughout their lives. Walter F. Currie leaves behind a rich legacy of family, education, and community involvement that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
