David Lee Culler

David L. Culler, 74, resident of Redford Township, MI, passed away on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 in Livonia, MI. Dave was born on March 25, 1937 in Defiance, Ohio and graduated from Mark Center High School in 1955. He received a Bachelor's Degree from Defiance College in 1960 and a Master's Degree from the University of Toledo in 1961. Dave was an elementary school teacher for 35 years, including 4 years in Sylvania, OH, 1 year in Bryan, OH and 30 years in Garden City, MI, before retiring in 1992. Dave taught 3rd through 6th grades for many years with 5th grade being his favorite, though he taught Title 1 Reading and Math for grades K-6 during his last 10 years of teaching. He received the Flag of Learning Award in 1986 from the city of Garden City for his years of involvement with parents and teachers through the Lathers School PTA. He was the first teacher to receive this honor. Dave was also a baker for his entire adult life. He baked for 2500 students and staff at the Interlochen Arts Camp for 11 years during the 1960s and 1970s. At home, he baked over 40 wedding cakes and numerous birthday, shower, and graduation cakes. He was well known for his apple pies, brownies, Scotch shortbread, rolls and varieties of cookies. Dave had many other interests and activities throughout his life, including serving many years as Deacon, Elder, and committee member at his church. He sang in the church choir and enjoyed performing in musicals at church and with the Garden City Civic Players. He was the President of the North Redford American Little League and served in other positions as well. In more recent years, he served as President of the Wayne County chapter of MEA-Retired and as Director of Region 2. He enjoyed relaxing and fishing for salmon on Drummond Island during the summer months. Dave also liked to travel and visited almost all of the 50 states, including several trips to Hawaii and two trips to Alaska. He also traveled all over Canada and enjoyed trips to England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Israel, and Australia. Dave is survived by his wife Judy, sons Kevin (Valerie) and Kurt, and granddaughters Jaclyn and Katelyn. He is also survived by his sister Betty (Denny) Guilford and his brother Alan (Arlene) Culler. He was predeceased by his parents, Calvin and Mabel Culler, and by his sister, Norma Culler. A memorial service will be held at Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church, 9601 Hubbard, Livonia on Saturday, November 5th. Visitation is from 10:30-12:00; service at 12:00 noon; and luncheon at 1:00. Donations are suggested to Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church. Please share a memory or condolence with the Culler family.