06/03/2026
Steven “Mad Dawg” Curran, A legendary martial artist, world-class competitor, successful businessman, and deeply devoted family man, has passed away. He was a master of his craft, a dedicated mentor, and larger-than-life personality who left an indelible, permanent mark on the world of sport karate and the Tacoma community. As a loving husband, Steve always wanted the best for his wife. He was also a loving father to Brian, Craig, and Kim, always enjoying watching their sports growing up and remaining extremely proud of their success in their careers.
His professional and athletic accomplishments were many. Steve was an 11-time World Sport Karate Champion, a gold medalist at the 1990 Goodwill Games, and a winner of over 160 national and international championships, alongside more than 20 Grand National titles. He Traveled the national circuit, where to this day has so many dear friends across the United States. His fierce skill and crowd-pleasing style earned him the deep love of his fans and his iconic nickname, “Mad Dawg”
Steve brought that same explosive talent to Hollywood, working extensively as a stuntman and actor alongside Chuck Norris on Walker, Texas Ranger and the film The Cutter. In recognition of his historic athletic achievements, he was proudly inducted into the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame.
As a successful businessman, Steve owned and operated Steve Curran Karate in Tacoma’s Proctor District for 45 years. Through his dojo, he shaped the lives of countless young people, instilling principles of discipline, respect, and strength.
Beyond the mat, Steve was a man of diverse passions. He had a profound love for classic cars and a deep passion for building Harley-Davidson motorcycles, with his custom bike builds frequently featured in magazines. He also found great joy in the quiet comforts of life; his love for his kitties was massive part of his life, and his absolute favorite getaway place was Priest Lake. Idaho, where his family shared a cabin.
Steve’s greatest legacy remains the family he built and the thousands of lives he transformed. He is survived by his devoted wife and partner in life, Suzanne Curran; his beloved children, Brian Curran, Craig Curran, and Kim Curran; his cherished grandchildren, Jordyn Curran, Madison Curran-Torres, Emily Curran, Drew Larson, Declan Curran, and Ellè Curran; and his adored great-grandson Zaiden Curran. He also leaves behind a vast global community of students, black belts, and lifelong friends who carry his spirit forward.
A celebration of life to honor his incredible journey and legacy will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your local youth sports program of animal shelter, keeping Steve’s life long passion for youth mentorship and his love for animals alive.
