Dean Cull Obituary
August 3, 1935 to July 7, 2025
Born in Sutter County, CA, on August 3, 1935, to Ross and Lucille Cull. Dean lived the majority of his life in the town of Sutter, CA.
From an early age, he displayed a deep curiosity about the world, a strong sense of humor, an insatiable desire to build things, and a talent for storytelling that would guide much of his life's path.
Dean graduated from Sutter Union High School in 1953. Soon after, he attended Yuba College, where he obtained his Associate of Arts degree in Communications and Radio Operational Engineering, as well as his FCC licenses, including First Class and General Class.
Dean built a distinguished career in broadcasting, holding various positions including and not limited to; radio host, upper management, engineer, programming, and sales positions at several highly reputable broadcasting companies.
This includes Twin Cities Broadcasting Co., Santa Maria Valley Broadcasting, Central Coast Broadcasting, Capital City/ABC Inc., Northwest Broadcasting Inc., Kelly Broadcasting Inc., Tribune Broadcasting Co/WGN, Schafer Digital Inc., and RCS Broadcasting for over 55 years.
One of his proudest accomplishments was his role in bringing FM radio to Northern California.
He was known for his creativity, programming skills, smooth voice, sharp insight, and ability to connect with audiences, making him a familiar and trusted voice to countless listeners as "the voice of KCTC."
Whether covering local news, narrating documentaries, or mentoring younger broadcasters, Dean's contributions to the field left an indelible mark.
Dean was married to his first wife, Patricia Cull, for 32 years, with whom he lovingly raised three children, Robin Barraza, Shawn Larsen, and William "Bing" Cull.
Later in life, Dean found love again and married Jennifer Cull, with whom he shared 30 more joyful years of marriage.
Together, they built a beautiful life and blended family filled with unsurpassed love, laughter, and many cherished moments.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Cull; his brother, Dale Cull (Pat); his daughter, Shawn Larsen (Howard); his son, William "Bing" Cull (Debbie Miller); his adored stepchildren, Anna Laurita (David Hite) and Jason Laurita; as well as grandchildren, Anthony Barraza, Angela Barraza, Ryan Larsen, Kenneth Larsen, Erika Larsen, Samantha Bales, Jack Hite, Grace Hite, Max Hite, Victoria Laurita, and Brandon Laurita; great-grandchildren, Leon Larsen, Everett Larsen, Adelyn Larsen, Declan Larsen, Julian Barraza, and Nicolas Barraza; along with a wide circle of extended family and friends who will carry his memory forward.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Patricia Cull; his daughter, Robin Barraza; and his brother, Neil Cull.
Outside of work, Dean had a passion for politics, boating, fishing, sports, assorted technical projects, and travel.
He could often be found tinkering in the garage and cheering on his favorite team on his back patio, always embracing life with enthusiasm and determination.
He believed in kindness, hard work, and integrity, and he lived each day with purpose and gratitude. Dean will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but for his warmth, humility, and the way he made others feel seen and heard.
His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched. His last wish for all who knew him was, "Please take strength in my memory".
Dean peacefully passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 89. A memorial and Celebration of Life will be held early this fall, at a location to be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dean Cull's name to the Sutter Youth Organization, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 94-1558662). Donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 231, Sutter, CA 95982.
Published by Appeal Democrat from Jul. 15 to Jul. 19, 2025.