Obituary of Dr. Klara Kiss
In Loving Memory of Dr. Klara Kiss
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Klara Kiss on October 11, 2023, at Overlook Hospital, Summit, NJ. Born on August 29, 1930, in Üjpest, now a part of Budapest, Hungary, Klara led a life of brilliance, tenacity, and grace.
Klara’s journey began in Budapest and took her across the world. She lived in Canada during the late 1950s before settling in various parts of the United States, finally making her home in Watchung, NJ, in 2017. Along the way, she touched countless lives with her intelligence, wit, and kindness.
An alumna of the renowned Jewish Gymnasium for Girls in Budapest, Klara's academic prowess was evident early on. She completed her Master's degree in 1953 and went on to achieve her PhD in Analytical Chemistry in 1983, a source of immense pride for her.
Dr. Kiss’s impressive employment history began at the Research Center for the Organic Chemical and Plastics Industry in Budapest and spanned across multiple countries and sectors. Her dedication and passion culminated in her position as Senior Scientist at Stauffer Chemical Company, which was later acquired by Akzo Nobel. After her retirement, she took on a new type of challenge as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for CCP Printing, a company owned by her husband, George Curtis.
Beyond her many professional accomplishments, Klara had a profound love for reading, travel, and needlework. Her talent in writing brought forth her memoirs, "Fuir" (published as "Escape" in English), and "Memoire Vignettes," as well as the collection of poems "Steel Under Velvet," on which she lovingly collaborated with her daughter Agi and granddaughter Katica.
Klara cherished her family deeply. She was married to Kornel Kiss for over three decades and later to George Curtis. She was a loving mother to Gabor and Agnes and a doting grandmother to Andras and Katica. The joy of her life was her great-grandson, Emerson Kornel Kiss Edge.
In her journey of life, Klara was preceded in death by her parents, Jenö and Franciska Sahn, and her siblings, Imre and Ildiko (Zahava).
Today, as we remember Klara, we celebrate not just her achievements but also the spirit with which she lived – a spirit of curiosity, resilience, and boundless love. She will forever be remembered and cherished in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Klara.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. A graveside service will be held after the funeral service, commencing at 1:30 p.m., at Ferncliff Cemetery, 280 Secor Road, Hartsdale, NY 10530.
