Curtis 'Curt' Lipke

Curtis 'Curt' Lipke, 58, of Salt Lake City, Utah, was known for his athleticism, love for sports, and the great outdoors. He was uber passionate about skiing, mountain biking, riding his Harley, jumping doubles on his motor cross bike, and competing in triathlons. He even took second place in the World Senior Games.

Curtis, a lifelong animal lover and longtime Humane Society of Utah supporter, adopted two dogs, Andy and Sally, from HSU in the early 2000s. Along with Curtis' human family members, Andy and Sally were the loves of his life. He took his dogs everywhere with him, wanting them to live an adventurous life in the great outdoors alongside him.

In 2009, when Curtis was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, his doctors told him he only had six months to live. Ken Lipke, Curt's nephew, said, "Curt refused to let his diagnosis keep him from living a vibrant life. While undergoing chemo, Curt continued to compete in endurance sports and win events. His doctors at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital often called on Curt to speak with other patients to provide support and demonstrate that you can have a high quality of life even while battling cancer. He took great pride in inspiring other patients."

Unfortunately, Curtis lost his heroic battle on August 3, 2012, with his family members and two dogs at his side. His dog, Andy, who was thirteen years old and had no known health issues, died within hours of Curt's passing. "They were that close," Ken explained. "It was like they held on for each other, and when Curtis departed, Andy couldn't bear to be without him, so he left this world to be at Curt's side in heaven."

While Curtis had made several donations to the Humane Society of Utah throughout his life, nothing prepared our team when we discovered that he had left over 2.8 million dollars to HSU in his will. The gift was so significant that many of our staff members cried upon hearing the news, for they understood the impact Curt's legacy would have on the animals in our care now and in the years to come.

"The Humane Society of Utah would not be where it is today except for the generous gifts of donors like Curtis Lipke, who have enabled us to make the capital improvements that ordinary income cannot support." HSU's Board President, Craig Cook, said. "This gift is the largest one in the 63 years of HSU's service to the community, and we are so grateful. There is no greater way to show love for animals than to provide for them when you are no longer here."

Curtis' cancer battle lasted three years and eight months, and Ken points out that he lived well past the six-month mark initially given by his doctors. "His strength of mind, body, and spirit carried him through his battle, and now that he's gone, Curt went out of his way to ensure he could continue to help other homeless pets live vibrant and full lives like Andy and Sally."

Curt's beloved wife, Linda Mulkey, passed away in 2022, leading to HSU receiving Curt's donation this year. He is survived by his brothers Neil, Eric, and Brian; sister Meredith; nieces Carlisle, Katie, Elissa, and Erica; and nephew Kenneth.

In November 2023, the Humane Society of Utah was honored to recognize Curt with the first annual Legacy Award at our Wags to Wishes Gala. Ken graciously attended the event, and accepted the award on behalf of his late uncle. It is our privilege to honor Curt's legacy in this way, and showcase his lasting impact on animal welfare in the state of Utah.