Rancho Palos Verdes, California — Carole Ortale Curtis, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 surrounded by loved ones. Born on August 15, 1944, Carole spent most of her life in Rancho Palos Verdes, where she created a life defined by warmth, grace, creativity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her husband, Jack, and children, Mark & Michelle, were her greatest joy!

Raised in Southern California, Carole attended Notre Dame Academy High School and California State University, Long Beach, where she earned her degree in English. Throughout her life, she was known as the absolute life of the party—vibrant, joyful, and magnetic. People were naturally drawn to her quick wit, generous spirit, and remarkable gift for storytelling.

Carole channeled her love of words and people into a meaningful professional life. She spent many years working as a career and guidance counselor, helping countless individuals discover their professional paths and personal confidence. She also worked with women in the beauty industry through BeautiControl, helping them look and feel their best. Her compassion, encouragement, and genuine care left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

A gifted writer, author and poet, Carole devoted much of her life to creative expression. Her professional and literary achievements brought her the distinguished honor of being included in Who's Who in America, and she published a collection of poems written throughout her life in her book, Crossing The Bridges of Life.

Beyond her professional and creative pursuits, Carole was deeply committed to service and community involvement. She was a dedicated advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association, served as legislative chairperson for Soleado Elementary School, and was an active minister at St. John Fisher Church, where she also chaired several women’s groups and associations. She proudly served on the Board of Directors for Casa de los Angelitos, an organization especially close to her heart. Throughout her life, Carole also generously supported numerous philanthropic and community organizations, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Above all else, Carole’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished every gathering, every conversation, and every opportunity to create lasting memories with the people she loved most.

She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, John “Jack” Curtis; her children, Mark Curtis and his wife Heather, and Michelle Curtis Steinbeck and her husband Roger; her five cherished grandchildren, Brendan, Paige, Blaire, Katherine, and Reagan; and her sister, Christine Ortale, and her husband Jim Hammersmith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ann and Albert Ortale.

Family and friends are invited to a mass and service held on June 4, 2026 at Green Hills Mortuary & Memorial Chapel at 11:30 am, 27501 S. Western Avenue, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275. Immediately followed by a celebration of Carole’s life at Raffaello Ristorante at 1:30 pm, 457 W. 7 th St., San Pedro, CA 90731. Flowers are welcome or a memorial donation may be made in her honor to: