Curtis Boehm

Curtis Boehm, 73, passed away July 1, 2026. He lived with curiosity, humor, generosity, and an enduring appreciation for music, craftsmanship, adventure, and those he loved.

Born on July 28, 1952, in Danville, Illinois, to Ernie and Evelyn Boehm, Curt formed lifelong friendships that remained lifelong treasures. The adventures of his youth became favorite stories he delighted in sharing throughout his life, always accompanied by his remarkable gift for finding humor in everyday moments.

Music was woven into every chapter of Curt’s life. From his early years playing in local bands such as Lil’ Big Horn and Jade, through his studies at Berklee College of Music and Illinois State University, he forged lasting friendships with fellow musicians and developed into an accomplished jazz tenor saxophonist. Whether performing, practicing, or listening to the artists who inspired him, music was far more than entertainment—it was his language, his refuge, and a daily source of joy.

Curt believed deeply in the healing power of music. He often spoke of its ability to comfort, restore, and connect people in ways words alone could not. He could not imagine a day without music filling the room, and his appreciation extended far beyond jazz. His tastes were wonderfully eclectic, reflecting both an open mind and an endless curiosity. Whether listening to the Allman Brothers, Steely Dan, revisiting Pink Floyd,

Curt found beauty wherever exceptional musicianship could be found. Curt especially admired the art of improvisation—creating something beautiful in the moment through discipline, experience, instinct, and trust. Those same qualities shaped the way he approached life.

Curt built a successful career in sales with Bodine Electric, where his technical knowledge, integrity, and genuine ability to connect with people earned the trust of customers and colleagues alike. He believed relationships were as important as the products he represented, and he took pride in helping others find thoughtful, lasting solutions.

Throughout his life, Curt admired things that were thoughtfully crafted—whether a jazz solo, fine German engineering, a dinner meal, a welcoming home, or a lifelong friendship. He believed the little details mattered, that the finest things in life were built with care, patience, and heart, and he quietly lived by that philosophy every day. Curt appreciated things that were built to last and found quiet fulfillment in caring for them well. He explored Europe and Alaska with family and those closest to him, collecting cherished memories. He approached every journey with curiosity, humor, and an openness to whatever came next.

Nothing in Curt’s life brought him greater happiness or pride than his son, Alex. Watching Alex grow into an accomplished musician and successful chemist filled him with immeasurable joy. He celebrated Alex’s achievements with genuine pride and never missed an opportunity to tell others about the remarkable man his son had become.

He will be remembered for his warmth, quick wit, generosity, and quiet authenticity. He treasured lifelong friendships, loved deeply, laughed often, and never lost the adventurous spirit that had defined him since childhood.

Curt is survived by his son, Alex Boehm; his beloved companion, Janet Thorlton; his brother, Terry Boehm (Candace); his niece, Heather (Mitch) Sellett; his nephew, Jason Boehm; along with extended family members and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Evelyn Boehm, and his wife and high school sweetheart, Cathy Boehm.

Curt’s life finds its echo in Alex, the son he cherished beyond measure, and in Janet, his beloved companion. Through them, his melody endures—steady, joyful, and unmistakably his. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many friends whose kindness, support, and love brought comfort to Curt throughout his life and to those who now mourn his passing.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center Danville, Illinois, 3940 N. Vermilion Street, Danville, Illinois 61834. Matt Filicsky will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1:00 -3:00 PM on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois State University School of Music (https://giving.illinoisstate.edu/unit/music/) PSC Partners Seeking a Cure (https://pscpartners.org/donate/), or the Danville Humane Society.

Please join Curtis’ family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .