Curt Carlisle

July 25, 1959 – March 22, 2025

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Curt Carlisle, who left this world on March 22nd surrounded by his wife, three children, and beloved dogs. 

Curt was born July 25, 1959 in Russell, Kansas to Vic and Nevell Carlisle. He attended Russell Schools before studying at the University of Kansas. Soon he met the love of his life, Diane Vondemkamp, in college whom he married on July 30, 1983. His passion for the medical field led him to further his education at Missouri State University School of Anesthesia. While in Springfield, Diane and Curt had their three children Chase, Blake and Meg. Career opportunities brought them to Joplin where he worked as an anesthetist for almost 40 years. Always a man who truly loved his job and took great pride in mentoring future healthcare professionals, Curt’s compassion is something that always resonated with his patients, coworkers, and students.

Curt was a well-rounded man with many passions in life. He was a longtime member of St. Mary’s Church. Curt logged thousands of hours as a pilot, flying his friends and family all across the country. He enjoyed home improvement projects.  Curt was an avid animal lover, especially all of his beloved dogs he brought home without Diane’s knowledge. His greatest passion of all was supporting and fiercely loving his kids in all of their endeavors from filling numerous Gatorade bottles for football practice to cheering in the stands of cheerleading competitions. Once his kids were grown, he enjoyed traveling with Diane, his sister Vicki, and brother-in-law Bill and coaching for the Joplin Miracle League.  In these last years he was blessed with his most important title, grandpa. He was affectionately known as “Goose” to his grandbabies Elliott, Bennett, and Collins. Friday night dinners, Saturdays watching the Jayhawks, and Sundays rooting on the Chiefs were constant staples always there with his close-knit family. 

For the past six years, Curt courageously fought a private battle with Multiple Myeloma. Even with numerous trials and lengthy hospital stays he remained positive and without complaint, never letting his diagnosis define him. He was a true cancer warrior. 

Curt is survived by his wife of 42 years, Diane; his children Chase (Brittney) Carlisle and daughters Blake (Jacob) Hamilton, and Meg (Colby) Cram. He is also survived by his mother Nevell and sister Vicki (Desbien). As well as in-laws Linda Lada, Tim (Bernadette) Vondemkamp, and Mike Vondemkamp. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his father Vic Carlisle, in laws Rich and Mary Ann Vondemkamp, and brother in laws Bill Desbien and Bob Lada. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Siteman Cancer Center for Multiple Myeloma research or the Joplin Humane Society. 
 
A celebration of Curt’s amazing life will be held March 29, 2025 from 2-5 at The Joplin Elks Lodge 
1802 W 26th St. Come with stories to honor our guy. Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO