Ken Curtis, best known for his role as Festus Haggen on the long-running television series Gunsmoke, passed away at a specific point in his life journey. Understanding his age at death requires looking at both his birth date and the date he died.
This overview presents key dates and biographical details related to Ken Curtis and his passing, making it easy to confirm how old he was when he passed away and to separate factual information from speculation.
| Key Date | Details | Relevance to Age at Death |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Date | July 2, 1916 | Used to calculate exact age at time of death |
| Date of Death | April 28, 1991 | Final point needed to determine age |
| Reported Age at Death | 74 years old | Matches calculation from July 2, 1916 to April 28, 1991 |
| Place of Death | Los Angeles, California | Context for final years and care circumstances |
Biographical Timeline Leading to Death
Examining Ken Curtis career and personal milestones provides context for his age and health in later years.
Born in 1916, Curtis served in the U.S. Army during World War II, an experience that influenced his discipline and outlook. His acting career took off in the 1950s, but it was his role on Gunsmoke, starting in 1962, that brought him widespread recognition as Festus Haggen.
Health in Later Years
As he aged, Curtis faced medical challenges that affected his strength and mobility.
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, reports indicated that he struggled with emphysema and other respiratory issues. These conditions gradually reduced his physical capacity and contributed to a more fragile state in the years leading up to his death at age 74.
Final Days and Cause of Death
In the months before he died, Curtis required increasing medical support and supervision.
He passed away on April 28, 1991, at a hospital in Los Angeles. Official records listed respiratory failure as the primary cause, directly linked to his long history of emphysema. This confirms that he was 74 years old when he passed away, aligning with his birth and death dates.
Public Memory and Legacy
Fans remember Ken Curtis not only for the toughness of Festus Haggen but also for the warmth he brought to the character.
His death at age 74 marked the end of an era for Gunsmoke enthusiasts. Memorials and retrospective articles continue to highlight how his performance aged gracefully in the view of television history, reinforcing the timeline of his life and passing.
Key Takeaways
- Ken Curtis was born on July 2, 1916, and died on April 28, 1991.
- He was 74 years old at the time of his death.
- Respiratory failure due to emphysema was the primary medical cause.
- His legacy as Festus Haggen remains strong among classic television fans.
FAQ
Reader questions
How old was Ken Curtis when he passed away?
Ken Curtis was 74 years old when he passed away on April 28, 1991.
What was the official cause of death for Ken Curtis?
Respiratory failure, related to long term emphysema, was the official cause of death.
Where did Ken Curtis die?
He died in Los Angeles, California, at a hospital near his home.
Was Ken Curtis still acting in his final years?
He made very few public appearances after retiring, focusing on managing his health instead.