Robert Cullen

Robert V. Cullen, 79, of Central Lake, passed away on April 26, 2013 at Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility. Bob was born on August 21, 1933 in Detroit, the son of Walter and Margaret (McCormick) Cullen. Bob was the youngest of 9 children and was a 1952 graduate of St. Mary of Redford Catholic Grammar and High School. Bob served in the U.S. Air Force for 3 years in Europe. Following his service he continued his education on the GI Bill attending Henry Ford Community College and the Detroit Institute of Technology. Following his education he began a career with AAA where he spent many years of employment. During his career he contributed significantly to the Auto Club's success through his efforts in the field of traffic safety undoubtedly helping to save the lives of many Michigan drivers. Several of the committees and programs that he was involved in are still in existence today having collaborated with the Michigan State Police, County Road Commission, Office of Highway Safety Planning, Sheriff's Association, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) to name a few. Even in retirement, Bob's move to Central Lake proved to be accomplished as he began working for the local newspaper, teaching for the Charlevoix Health Department on the correct use of child safety seats, Activity Director at East Jordan Senior Center, delivering meals on wheels, coaching basketball and girl's softball, submitting grants and fundraising for the library building fund as well as lights on the football field and press box. His love of sports drove him to organize a senior men's softball and volleyball team. Bob is survived by his wife Helen of 22 years, 5 children, Robert V. Cullen Jr. of Wixom, Brian P. (Katherine) Cullen of Medina, OH., Frances M. (Michael) Klingelhafer of Amelia, OH., Michael P. (Lisa) Cullen of Grosse Pointe, Mark A. (Jill) Cullen of Clawson, 3 step-children, David (Patti) Orcutt of Charlevoix, Cheryl (Dave) Petlichkoff of Dearborn and Lisa (Matt) Jones of Jackson. Also surviving are 2 sisters, Sr. Helen Margaret Cullen of Mt. St. Joseph, OH., Barbara Cullen of Royal Oak as well as 16 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and numerous siblings. Visitation will take place on Sunday, April 28 from 6-8 p.m. at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Funeral services will take place on Monday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Pastor Gary Bekkering will officiate. Interment will follow in Southern Cemetery, Central Lake Township. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Please sign our online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.