Rolland Benn-Ingles Curtis, known as Benn, passed away peacefully at home in Wrangell on Oct. 17, 2025. He was 76.
Born in Wrangell on March 29, 1949, to Rolland George “Curt” Curtis and Laura “Louise” Curtis, he grew up as an only child. He only learned in his teens of his older half-sisters — Ginger, Barbara, Frances and Yvonne — all of whom preceded him in death, as did his stepmother, Mary Curtis.
A lifelong Wrangell resident, Benn graduated from Wrangell High School and attended Kinman Business University in Spokane, Washington. He began working at City Market around age 15, eventually running the store with his father and with general manager Chet Powell before taking it over after his father’s passing. Under his leadership, the business grew to include Sentry Hardware.
Benn retired on Aug. 28, 2022, after nearly 59 years on the job.
Benn married Kathy Kurtti in his early adulthood. They raised two daughters, Angela and Tracey. After 15 years they parted amicably. Later, Benn met Shirley Wimberley, and they married and built a life together in Wrangell, welcoming their three sons, Rolland, Ford and Curtis.
Benn was dedicated to serving his community. He served on the city council, supported countless organizations and fundraisers, and was a member of Island of Faith Lutheran Church, Wrangell Elks Lodge, Pioneers of Alaska and the Washington Athletic Club. He was known for his quiet generosity — extending credit or offering help to those in need, believing in preserving dignity and never judging anyone’s circumstances.
Benn enjoyed traveling and fishing and loved following his sons to wrestling tournaments. His happiest place was visiting with customers at the store, where he never met a stranger.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley Wimberley; daughters Angela D. (Sean) Stevens and Tracey L. Curtis; sons Rolland B.C. Wimberley, Ford N.W. Curtis, and Curtis F.R. Wimberley; grandchildren Kellen, Sionna, Duncan and Ian Stevens; and great-grandchildren Broderyk and Winter.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28, at Island of Faith Lutheran Church, followed by a celebration of life at 4 p.m. at the Wrangell Elks Lodge.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wrangell Chamber of Commerce for the Fourth of July celebration, PO Box 49, Wrangell, AK 99929.
“Benn will be remembered for his hard work, generosity, and deep love for his community,” his family wrote.
