Steven R. Culton

Steven R. Culton
May 21, 1959 – December 27, 2025

Steven R. Culton was born on May 21, 1959, in Troy, Idaho, to Virgil R. Culton and Sharon Stallman Culton. Steve found joy in the simple things, good company, good laughs, and anything with an engine and water close by. He was quick with humor and happiest when life was moving at a good pace, preferably with a little horsepower involved.
Steve graduated from Garfield High School in Garfield, Washington, in 1977, where he made his mark both academically and athletically. A talented swimmer, he held several swimming records with the Garfield Swim Club, an early sign of his competitive spirit and lifelong connection to the water. That passion followed him throughout his life, growing into a love for boating and lake days, usually with Steve proudly rocking his Speedos, and plenty of time outdoors.
He went on to earn his degree in mechanical engineering from Washington State University in 1983, launching a long and successful career in the airline industry. Steve had a natural curiosity for how things worked and a true appreciation for craftsmanship, engineering, and anything built to move fast and run strong. Whether it was a boat, a vehicle, or a mechanical challenge, he enjoyed understanding it, improving it, and putting it to use.
On April 23, 1994, Steve married the love of his life, Cheryl Ruark. They built a life full of laughs, fun, and finding ways to enjoy every day. They loved to travel, hopping on a plane for a quick beach day, checking out new places, or heading off on a cruise, and when they weren't on the water, Steve was usually out cruising in his Corvette.
After retirement, they made their way to Lake Havasu, Arizona, where Steve fully embraced the lifestyle he loved most. A perfect day included sunshine, hiking, a boat on the water, good friends nearby, and a cold beverage in hand. Later, they moved to Yuma, Arizona, where they enjoyed the warm desert days and dancing in the desert.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Sharon Culton; his brother, Ed Culton; and his half-brother, Roger Culton.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his sister, Vicky Heilman; his nephews, Zac Zwerneman and Randy Heilman; his niece, Paige Hennings; and several extended family members.
Steve was a steady presence with a true "work hard, play hard" spirit. He carried himself with determination and pride, believing in doing things the right way and showing up for the people who mattered most. He valued loyalty, simplicity, and living life with purpose and joy.
Those who knew Steve will remember his quick wit, his love of adventure, and his ability to make everyday moments better just by being part of them. His legacy lives on through the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the many memories made on the water and beyond.
A celebration of life will be held at the Moose Lodge in Moscow, ID on Saturday, June 13th.
Memorials can be made to: AFTD - The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration 2700 Horizon Drive, Suite 120 King of Prussia, PA 19406 Office: 866-507-7222 https://www.theaftd.org or the hospice of your choice.