Art Corsie

CORSIE_Art Corsie, 56, a resident of Albuquerque and Rio Rancho since 1973 passed away suddenly on Friday, January 23, 2009. Art was born March 2, 1952 in Eau Claire, WI, the son of Victor and Elizabeth (Engstrom) Corsie. He grew up in Eau Claire and after high school graduation; joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM. During his time at KAFB, Art developed a fondness for New Mexico and the Southwest. Upon his discharge from the service, Art enrolled at the University of New Mexico where he received his Bachelor's degree. A short time later, he began working at the city planning office in Rio Rancho. During his seventeen years there, he became the department director and was instrumental in guiding the growth of Rio Rancho. Art loved being outdoors. As a boy, Art's family created many wonderful memories of time spent outdoors while camping and skiing. This influence fostered his passion for sailing, hiking, camping, riding his bicycles, motorcycles and generally adventuring throughout the "Great West" and Canada. He is remembered for his charismatic and gregarious personality. He also possessed a special ability of making certain that when he was with a group, they were all enjoying their time together as much as he was. He wanted everyone to feel that they were included in the fun. Most recently, Art became interested in dancing. He took lessons and was becoming "quite the dancer" to the extent that ladies would line up to have their turn to dance with him. Art is survived by his father; Victor of Altoona, WI, sisters and brother; Linda Schaefer and husband Bill of Fish Creek, WI, Richard W. Corsie of Altoona, WI, and Anne McIntyre and husband Brent of Eau Claire, WI, five nieces and nephews; Lisa Albanese and husband Bruce, Steven Schaefer, Dana Schaefer and fianc�?© Dan, Matthew Salter and Pamela Salter, great niece and nephew; Czarina and Duncan Albanese. Art is also survived by his loving companion Karen Boulanger and her daughters, Lauren and Brianna all of Rio Rancho. Memorial contributions may be made to the Art Corsie Memorial Fund, Contribution account #1558348189; c/o Wells Fargo Bank, 4110 Meadowlark Lane SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Arrangements are entrusted to: Daniels Family Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 505-892-9920