Photo courtesy of Swartz Funeral Home - Flint
Flint, Michigan
CULVER, John P., Jr. ? Of Flint, age 69, died Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at Genesys Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his family.
Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2013 at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Jeff Whiteley officiating.
Burial in Evergreen Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions to The John Culver Memorial Scholarship: An annual scholarship to be given to a Swartz Creek High School graduating senior, who is pursuing a career in education.
Visitation 3-8 p.m. Thursday and 11-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
John was born in Saginaw, Michigan on February 4, 1944, the son of the late John, Sr. and Ellen (Smith) Culver.
John graduated from Flint Southwestern High School Class of 1962 and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict.
He graduated from the University of Michigan-Flint with a Bachelor?s Degree in Education.
John married Deborah Whiteley Keasler on June 26, 1999 in Flint.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, golfing, cooking, bird watching and gardening.
John taught at Morrish Elementary School in Swartz Creek for 30 years.
Teaching was his passion and he found joy in working with the children and their families in Swartz Creek.
Surviving are wife, Deborah;
three children, Annelise and husband Ben Buchanan of Melbourne, Florida,
Melissa and husband Caleb Rutan of Ypsilanti and
David Keasler of Flint;
six grandchildren, Ryan, Maryn, Cailin and John Phillip Buchanan, Henry and Oscar Rutan;
two sisters, Linda and husband Bill Gifford,
Mary and husband Joel Corner, all of Flushing;
several amazing nieces and nephews, who loved him dearly;
many special friends;
mother-in-law, Mildred Whiteley of Flint;
brothers and sisters-in-law, Steve and wife Carol Whiteley of Upland, Indiana,
Jeff and wife Kathy Whiteley of Leelanau, Michigan;
special aunt, Sarah Andrews of Flint.
He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Charles Whiteley.
Your condolences may be shared with the family at www.swartzfuneralhomeinc.com
I can´t believe John has been gone 8 years! I can still picture the two of bantering on the golf course! I know he is resting peacefully, and his family is doing well!
Kirk Hamilton
October 04, 2021 | Friend
I didn't know. I'm still shocked. I had written an email to Mr. Culver a half hour ago and when it came back, I did some research. I can't believe he died last year and I'm just finding out about it.
The following the email I just wrote to him as a tribute.
Mr. Culver,
It has been too long! My wife and I travel in full-time Gospel music ministry - giving the good news of Jesus Christ to anyone and anywhere that we've been called. It was during one of these travels...
John D.
July 04, 2014 | Emmett, MI
John, a good messenger and long time friend. A thoughtful reflection for my seeking eyes. A kindred touch in a sore world. A Sampson at last at rest. Love, Jerry
Jerry Shimon
October 16, 2013 | Flint, MI
Monday, October 14, 2013
I met John a few years back and discovered what a wonderful man he was and recognized right away that he was a kind and gentle soul.He never had a bad word to say about anyone. He had nothing but love,and he was a great teacher.
I was fortunate to go to his funeral service and witness the love and respect from his friends and family members. The things that they said about him made me well up and not just with tears but with pride from knowing him. John...
Gary Koski
October 14, 2013 | Burton, MI
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Melissa, and your family. I had such wonderful memories of mr. Culver when we were growing up, memories that will last a lifetime! Especially he introduced me to bagels with cream cheese and olives!! He was an awesome man!!
Emily Orsburn (Ahl)
October 13, 2013 | Flushing, MI
Deb,
Easy to tell by reading this guest book that John was a special man - wish we could have played more golf together - our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this time - what a special memorial service - will never forget!Bill&Jill Benn
October 13, 2013
Mr. Culver was a great man and a wonderful teacher. I was lucky enough to have him for 1st and 5th grade. I will never forget him and how he touched all our lives. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Christina Peabody
October 13, 2013 | Spangdahlem AB, Germany
Today I was present at the most beautiful memorial service that I have ever attended. I laughed and I cried but most of all I was reminded of just how much John has touch so many of our lives. He was a wonderful human being and left us much too soon but now is at peace. I pray for peace for Deb and her family and remind them that he will always be always be present in their hearts. May all of us keep John in our hearts for years to come. God Bless.
Carole Peer
October 12, 2013 | Swartz Creek
I will always carry the memories of Mr. Culver close to my heart. I am so sad about his passing, but I know that his kindness and strength will remain through Melissa and the rest of the family. I will never forgot how special Mr. Culver made me feel. He seemed to love everything and everyone! I was lucky to know Mr. Culver, and I will think of him always.
Erika Diener
October 12, 2013 | Macomb Twp, MI