August 6, 1924- June 22, 2009

Curtis O. Baney, husband, father, grandfather and best friend, passed away in his ranch home surrounded by his loving family on the afternoon of Monday, June 22.

Curt was born in Fowler, Missouri on August 6, 1924. His mother, Gusta passed away from child birth complications and he was raised by his grandparents, Charles and Alice Hoffarth. At the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the US Navy and served in World War II. Following his time in the service, he moved west to Oregon to pursue the world of business as an automotive entrepreneur. It was on a sales trip between Portland and Pendleton that Curt met his beloved wife, Myrtie. Curt and Myrtie married in 1956 and had four beautiful children, Kim, Kelsey, Curt and Kevin.

1956 also marked the beginning of Curt and Myrtie’s hospitality career when they bought the historic Geiser Grand Hotel in Baker, Oregon. Later, he built and operated the Maverick Motel in Klamath Falls, the first of several motels in the northwest. In the early days of his hotel business, he would travel between properties on a weekly basis, logging thousands of miles a year. Curt later developed a passion for flying which he passed on to his sons, who became pilots for the company.

After moving to Bend in 1973, Curt purchased a charming ranch east of town. This opened a new chapter for the family raising Quarter horses and traveling the northwest show circuit. Horse showing became a passion for the entire family and they went on to win state and national championships.

During the spring of 1980, Curt purchased a small apple and cherry orchard in the Columbia Basin that was managed by his son, Kevin. Growing the orchards into a fully fledged business, Kevin oversaw the success of the estate for several years.

The Oxford Suites brand was co-founded by Curt and his son, Curt A. Today, the Oxford Hotel Group operates properties in four western states. His lifelong dream was fulfilled when all four of his children and wife went to work for the family business.

Hunting and gold mining were also among his recreational passions. Known for his ‘one-liners,’ Curt had an enduring sense of humor that was infectious to all those around him. Throughout the years, dinners, barbeques and holidays were filled with his spirit and appreciation for the most important thing in his life, FAMILY. Easter was a particular favorite for Curt, as he chased and helped his grandchildren with their annual Easter-egg hunt.

Curt is survived by his wife Myrtie, his children Kim, Kelsey and Curt. Seven grandchildren also survive him: Ali, Cale, Curtis, Forrest, Hayden, Katia and Addy. He was preceded in death by his son, Kevin.

A private graveside service was held at Pilot Butte Cemetery. A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, June 29th at the First Presbyterian Church of Bend.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established with Partners in Care of Bend (http://www.partnersbend.org/), serving end of life family needs.

Curtis O. Baney