Peter "Pete" Curzon

Peter J. Curzon was born on June 21st, 1946 in Poole, England. He passed away on the morning of January 3, 2025. Peter was a resident of Eugene, Oregon since 2018 and was formerly a resident of Riverside, California and Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. No words can pay enough tribute to all that he meant to those who loved him but especially to his wife Cherie. He has left an empty place in all our hearts.

Pete had very active and full life. After finishing two tours of duty in Vietnam with the United States Air Force, he embarked on a career in Law Enforcement. First, as a Deputy with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in 1970 and then, with the Riverside Police Department in 1977. During his career, he worked many assignments. His goal was always to leave the bureau, division and people better than he found them. His tenure at the Riverside Police Department was 28 years retiring as a Captain in 2005. He accepted the position of Chief of Police for Astoria, Oregon in 2008. During his tenure, Curzon served for a year as both police and fire chief, oversaw the public safety building remodel, replaced police vehicle computers with iPads and implemented a truck inspection program. He retired, again, in 2014.

Pete had many interests. He became a licensed pilot and enjoyed his own aircraft. He restored antique cars. He had a lifelong love of all animals but was especially fond of raising tropical fish. He loved the island of Maui where he and Cherie had many happy times.

Pete had so many gifts. He was courageous and forthright. He was a dedicated professional, organized and hard-working. He was keenly observant and understanding of people. His advice to friends and family was valuable and valued. He had the gift of laughter. His sense of humor never left him. He lived his life with dignity and honor and was well worthy of our respect and our love. 

He passes from life but not from our memories. Instead, his memory is honored, his love remembered and his life treasured. All who loved him will always be grateful that we shared this life together.

He leaves behind his wife, Cherie and his sister Susan and his precious Gracie, who will always remember him as her “Gramma Pete.”