Lester S. Curnow III, 69, of Middletown died on February 6th following a 7-year battle with cancer.  Les was born in Hartford to Lester S. Curnow II of Naples, FL and the late Elizabeth (Betty) Curnow (nee White).  The Curnows left Charter Oak Terrace and settled in Middletown, where Les would go on to attend Middletown public schools.  While attending Middletown High School, Les was part of the rifle team and the SWAS program before graduating with the class of 1972.

Throughout his life, Les was an avid outdoorsman.  He was proficient at shooting, archery, hunting, and training game dogs.  However, he excelled at fishing, placing among the best in the state as a member of the Central CT Bassmasters and competed in national tournaments.  However, his biggest catch was his beloved wife, Cathy.  Les and Cathleen Wilmer met as children, growing up together as neighbors.  They married after high school and made their home in Middletown, later having two children.

Les was employed by the State of CT for 37 years, working most of his career as a Technical Systems Analyst in the Retirement Services Division of the State Comptroller's Office.  Upon retirement, Les took up new outdoor hobbies, drone piloting and metal detecting, before his illness progressed.  Les passed away with his wife of nearly 48 years by his side.

He is survived by his wife Cathy, daughters Heather (Curnow) Starkes and Leslie Curnow, his father Lester, brother Gary A. Curnow Sr. of North Carolina, sister Jean Curnow of Florida, and a large family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He is also survived by his friends in the sporting community, particularly his best friend of 40 years, Dean Giachello of South Carolina.  He was predeceased by his mother, Betty and his brother, Michael Curnow.

By his request, there were no services held, and any memorial contributions made in his name should benefit local non-profit dog rescue organizations. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.