MISHAWAKA -- John A.D. "JC" Curtis Jr., 65, of Mishawaka, died at 6:45 p.m. Friday (Feb. 27, 2009) in Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago.

He was born May 28, 1943, in Indianapolis to John A.D. Sr. and Marjorie D. (Woodworth) Curtis. On May 28, 1996, he married Shirley A. Takace in Osceola.

She survives along with two daughters, Stephanie (Anthony) Payne and Shannon Avara, both of Mishawaka; one son, James Avara of South Bend; three grandchildren; and three sisters, Pamela (George) Whipple of Hamilton, Ohio, Sue Ann (Robert) Haberle of Greencastle and Jean (Floyd) Cummins of Coatesville.

Mr. Curtis was an independent over-the-road trucker for more than 30 years, working out of Granger under the name of John Curtis Trucking. He attended Culver Military Academy and Lincoln Technical Institute, Indianapolis. He loved speed, was an avid drag race car driver, racing the quarter mile on tracks across the country, and raced funny cars, motorcycles, jet cars and a semi. He won first in his class during a Labor Day National in Clermont many years ago.

He was member of the 1965 to 1966 Classic Car Club.

There will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place. Burial will be in Stilesville Cemetery at a later date.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is assisting with arrangements.

Memorials may be given to the John A.D. Curtis Jr. Memorial Fund in care of Billings Funeral Home. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.