Gary T. Curcuru

SOUTH PORTLAND – Gary T. Curcuru, 70, of South Portland, died on Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024.

Born in Gloucester, Mass., he was the son to the late Salvatore and Florence (Giamanco) Curcuru and was a graduate of Gloucester High School, class of 1973.

Gary enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served from 1975 with the Company 247 until 1981. After his time serving our country, he went on to attend North Shore Community College and graduated with an associate’s degree. Gary left Gloucester, Mass. in 1984 to move to Boston and pursue a career in computer programming by Pencil Pushers, Inc.

While living in Boston, Gary met the love of his life, Michael Cherrix. In 1993, Gary and Mike moved to Portland. They made friends with everyone they met, they were well known for their 4th of July and Christmas parties, both considered events of the year. Mike passed away in 2017.

Gary was loved by all who met him, he was very generous and quick to help a sick friend in need with money to help them through their illness. Gary was a big supporter of the Maine Special Olympics and other charities. Gary enjoyed watching the Red Sox and the Patriots. Gary enjoyed having lunch with Keith Bennett, Keith Foley, Doug Simpson and Zach Huggard frequently at his favorite restaurants, J’s Oyster, DiMillo’s on the Water and Texas Road House. He was loved by all the servers for his generosity.

Gary is survived by one brother, Philip Curcuru and his wife, Valerie of Arizona, two sisters, Carole Salles and her husband, Daniel of Gloucester, Mass., Grace Viola of Gloucester, Mass., sister-in-law, Donna Curcuru; 11 nieces and nephews, Nicholas Marcantonio of Magnolia, Mass., Julie Marcantonio of Wakefield, Mass., Holly Ryan of Gloucester, Mass., Lewis Ryan of Gloucester, Mass., Carla Kolesar of Hamilton, Mass., Nicholas Curcuru of Gloucester, Mass. Steven Curcuru of California, Anthony Curcuru of Gloucester, Mass., Christina Kalinowski of Gloucester, Mass., Jay Viola of Tennessee, David Viola of Gloucester, Mass.; four close friends, Keith Bennett, Keith Foley, Zach Huggard and Doug Simpson all of Portland; also his Chocolate Labs, Max and Lucy

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his partner, David Schofield, his partner, Michael Cherrix; one brother, Nicholas, and one sister, Marie Marcantonio; his two friends, Rusty Wilcox and Janie Napolitano.

Gary’s celebration of life will be Nov. 2 from 12 to 3 p.m. at DiMillo’s on the Water.

If so desired, memorial contributions in Gary’s name may be made to the

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland

217 Landing Rd.,

Westbrook, ME 04092;

207-854-9771