Curtis "Curt" Lee Wiley, Jr., beloved father and grandfather, veteran of the United States Air Force, and deeply analytical mind, passed away unexpectedly on July 2, 2026, at the age of 63. Born on April 14, 1963, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Curtis Sr. and Peggy Leemaster Wiley, Curt lived a life driven by a profound curiosity about how the world worked-both mechanically and theoretically.

A proud resident of Belleville, Illinois for over 20 years, Curt first moved to the area on military assignment as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician at Scott Air Force Base. After several deployments, discharge from the military, and a career in aircraft maintenance in several locations in the United States, he returned to the area and began a second career in Computer Repair and Information Technology, bringing with him a diverse skillset and a lifelong work ethic. He was a natural with complex machinery and systems, as evidenced by his diverse career achievements, military service, and work as a Jet Engine Mechanic, a computer technician, and a car mechanic.

In his younger years, Curt could often be found outdoors fishing, working hard on his latest project, or indulging his lifelong passion for fast cars. As the years passed, his love for fast cars never waned, but his interests expanded into deeply intellectual pursuits. He was exceptionally well-read and spent a lifetime reading regularly, which fueled a passion for studying advanced physics and exploring the complexities of philosophy and politics. He loved nothing more than engaging in deep discussions about the universe and society with those around him. Above all, as he grew older, he cherished the time he spent surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his children, Christopher Wiley and Kimberly Wiley; his grandchildren, McKayla Wiley, Gabriel Stickler, Faith Stickler, Katarina "Grace" Wiley, and Calliope Wiley; his siblings, Diana Kamer and William Wiley; and his cousin, Angela Wiley, along with many extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Curt was preceded in death by his son, Curtis Stephen Wiley; his grandson, Aiden Lee Wiley; and his siblings, Linda Bowling and Elwood Wiley.

The family will hold a private service at a later date to celebrate his life and legacy.