Another one of America’s “Greatest Generation” has died. Donald Wilmot “Don” Cullen of Helena passed away peacefully the morning of June 26, 2020, at Rocky Mountain Care Center in Helena, Montana. He was 96.
Ever the planner, Don was able to make his own decision about hospice, make his final wishes known, and ensure that his personal accounts were in order. Don passed away less than 5 days after his beloved wife Ruth, having fulfilled his desire that she not be left behind.
Don was born September 15, 1923, to Lucy and Wilmot Cullen in Winamac, Indiana. Soon after his birth, the family moved to Chicago, IL, where Don, soon joined by his younger brother Ross, were raised until 1940 when the family moved back to Winamac. Don graduated in 1941 from Winamac High School.
With WWII raging, Don was called into active duty with the U.S. Army Air Corps in February 1943, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. From December 1943 through December 1945, Don served overseas in the China-Burma-India (CBI) theater of operations at the USAAC air base in Chabua, India with the 1333 AAFBU. Don returned home to Winamac after discharge in late December, 1945, arriving on the very day his parents were notified that his missing-in-action brother Ross had been officially declared killed in action. Don’s brother Ross was the navigator of a B-17 shot down over Germany early that year on January 2, 1945.
Don set his sights on a college degree and the adventure of exploring a different part of the country, enrolling at the University of Montana on the G.I. Bill. He was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, the Druids Forestry school honorary, and was Chief Push for the annual forestry ball. He graduated with a Forestry degree in 1952 and worked in that field for one year. While at school, Don’s best friend and fraternity brother Bill Gibson and future wife Dinny Nelligan introduced Don to Elaine Lund. The two were married March 22, 1953, in Boulder, MT. Don and Elaine lived in Boulder for the first few years to help Elaine’s parents, and moved to Helena after Elaine’s father passed in 1957.
In July, 1958, Don and Elaine adopted a 3-month-old baby girl they named Constance LuAnn (Connie) from Shodair Children’s Hospital in Helena. Their friends the Gibsons subsequently adopted two children themselves, and the families remained lifelong friends. Don and Elaine were wonderful parents to Connie, and they love the three shared was beyond measure. Connie was also surrounded by the love of Don and Elaine’s extended family, including the Cullen grandparents who had moved out from Indiana, maternal grandmother Lottie Lund, and Elaine’s many wonderful aunts and uncles. Don took wonderful care of his parents in their later years, visiting them every day, and expanded his household to include mother-in-law Lottie in her final 6 years. His wife Elaine passed away in 1988, a few months after the celebration of their 35th wedding anniversary.
When Don met Ruth Smith after the passing of Elaine, the connection was immediate. Romance bloomed, aided by a mutual friend who suggested that Ruth invite that handsome Don over for a roast beef dinner. They seriously considered the question of marriage, wondering in their 60’s if one would end up caring for the other in a few short years. They decided if they had a good 10 years together, it would be worth it, and proceeded with a beautiful wedding in 1990 attended by their 5 adult children and their spouses. Don and Ruth’s marriage lasted just shy of 30 years and was definitely worth it. Don dearly loved their two joined families, participating in family activities and welcoming numerous grandchildren and more recently, great-grandchildren. Don introduced Ruth to square dancing, and she shared her love of travel. They enjoyed many memorable trips, including visiting his brother Ross’ grave in the U.S. Military Cemetery in Luxembourg.
Don was a hard-working, honest and respected businessman. He went into business for himself, first at a service station in Boulder. He then owned and operated Cullen’s 66 Service in downtown Helena, adding a second station on the east side some years later. Don providing jobs and guidance to many people over the years, and prided himself on providing excellent service to his customers. After he sold the stations in 1969, Don put his business and leadership skills to good use as the office manager at Steffeck Equipment Company (his favorite job), Valentine Oil and Cummins Electric. Never one to consider retiring, Don became a bus driver in 1986, driving for Hall Transit, Treasure State Transit and Rocky Mountain Development Council. He took a keen interest in his riders, fellow drivers and the office staff, knowing everyone by name.
Don absolutely loved people. He was genuinely interested in everyone he met, was endlessly curious, and always put others first. Don was a longstanding member of First Presbyterian Church, serving both as an elder and a deacon. Don was a past president of Helena Civitan Club and past director of the Helena Community Concert Association. Both Don and Ruth were HOSTS volunteers where they read to schoolchildren, and were active members of the Helena Metropolitan Dinner Club and Last Chance Square Dance Club. Don was a longtime board member of the condo associations for Somerset and Prospect Heights. Don was also in the Helena Bicycle Club; he rode in the Seattle to Portland (STP) bicycle ride first at age 73, then again at age 75, and completed the Double Divide Ride in Montana. When he was no longer up for the long rides, he volunteered at the refreshment stations.
Don was preceded in death by his first wife Elaine, second wife Ruth, parents Wilmot and Lucy Cullen, and brother Ross. Survivors include his daughter Connie L. (William) Lange of Newcastle, WA; granddaughter Allison M. (Matt) Macy of Albany, OR; stepchildren David (Karlee) Smith, Marcia (Warren) Patrick, Brad (Leslie) Smith, and Pam (Dan) Prebil; and grandchildren Stacy, Chris, Michelle, Rachel, Jessie, Katie, Josh and Danielle.
Don’s family wishes to express their appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and staff of both St. Peter’s Hospital and Rocky Mountain Care Center for all their care and support during Don’s last few months.
A private family service will be held for both Don and Ruth at First Presbyterian Church, followed by a public service for Don on Thursday, July 2, at 11:30 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens for internment of ashes with military honors. Don’s family welcomes all who can join us at the gravesite service, and asks that everyone wear masks and do social distancing to ensure everyone’s good health.
Remembrances in Don’s name may be made to the American Red Cross of Helena, Helena Foodshare at P.S. Box 943, Helena MT 59624-0943, or to the charity of your choice.
When you see one of America’s aging veterans, thank them for their service to our country. It means a lot to them.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
11:30 p.m.
Thursday July 2, 2020
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
11:30 p.m.
Thursday July 2, 2020
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Janice Glass says
Connie, I am so sorry, what a huge loss for you. You have been such a steady support to your dad and Ruth. They were fortunate to have such a loving daughter.
Janice
Mike & Charlie Phelps says
Dearest Connie
You have our love always. You have been a Godsend to Don & Ruth and they loved you so very much.
JUDITH MCCULLOUGH says
Connie,its been a long road may Don ands Ruth rest in peace.We are here for you and know we grieve with you.96 years is a pretty good run. See you at the funeral. Bob and Judi
Tom Naegele says
Family,
Don & Ruth have been a Blessing and both have touched my life. Send you Prayers of support and healing.
Tom
Debbie Erving says
Connie, my deepest sympathy. I always enjoyed visiting with your dad, He always welcomed me with that big smile. Once we got into a conversation about hats, and for several weeks he wore a different hat and explain to me The story behind it.
May your many memories comfort you at this time.
Kelly Flaherty-Settle says
Connie, I enjoyed several rode rides with your dad, and then enjoyed visiting with him when he “hosted” the “rest stops” on the One Helena Hundred rides. Ruth was always with him, with her beautiful smile. You and your family and in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelly Flaherty-Settle says
Connie, remember that at at point, down the road, a smile will appear, rather than a tear, when you think of your dad. Love Kelly
Tonna Strasko says
God be with you during one of life’s most difficult times!
Don is one of those most special people in my life! I am so thankful to have known him.
God be with you all with the loss of Don and Ruth.
God bless!
Henry Flatow says
I bought my first car, a 1953 Chevy, from Don when he owned his service station on North Main. I worked with Don while bus driving with TST. Don always kept his special needs bus immaculate and was a great driver. Lately, prior to the closing of the YMCA, I enjoyed visiting with Don on various topics. He was so alert and pleasant.
Valerie R says
I remember Don and Ruth from the years we lived in Montana and attended
First Presbyterian church together. Lovely couple. Don was lots of fun
and chaired meetings I attended and always brought Two Things:
An ALARM CLOCK clock set for an hour to keep the discussion moving along
and POPCORN for all the participants.
Sending you my deepest condolences,
Valerie R
Ocala, Florida
Del Harris says
Hello Connie Cullen Lane: Today at church I learned of Don and Ruth’s passing away recently. I knew Don and Elaine in Boulder when we were all young. Don was very successful in his Gas Station business in Boulder as he gave great service to all. As young married couples we had fun times together.
As time passed life took it’s tole, I knew Don and Ruth in Helena. I’m going to miss Ruth and Don coming to the Senior Center to sell their nuts for the Nile. They lived a good long life and will be missed in the Helena Community. I’m sure their passing leaves a big hole you their family’s lives. My sympathy to those of you left behind. Sincerely Del Harris
Joy Edgar says
I have so many memories of Don and Ruth with the First Presbyterian Church – they always had a smile and a greeting for everyone. They were very “Special People” and most certainly two of God’s very own “Special People.” Blessings to the families and my prayers are with you at this difficult time. Peace to your hearts.
In His Name,
Joy Edgar
Mike & Juanita McCreanor says
Brad & Leslie, Dave & Karlee, and families,
You must be so proud of all you did for, and with, Don: Dinners, and he loved those desserts; trips to the VA; haircuts; weekly visits, and so much more. You were always there for Don & Ruth. We witnessed his love for you all, not as ‘steps’, but as his own sons and daughters. This is truly a love story. Cherish the memories. Love you all.
Mike & Juanita
Carol Stebbins says
cmssells@bresnan.net
Dear Connie,
Don was one SPECIAL guy and together, he and Ruth were always going and doing. I admired their never giving up and ALWAYS they were “there” when lots of us stayed home!! He “kept up” and set a terrific example for the rest of us. I shall miss visiting with him. My sincerest sympathy to you and yours.
Lauren Murphy says
Connie,
Your dad and mom, Don and Elaine, were a part of my growing up in Boulder. Later, I would see them in Helena with my parents. After your mom died, it was Don and Ruth that we would run into like the last time at the Farmer’s Market downtown Helena. I think you were there, too, visiting from Seattle. They always greeted me with this warm welcoming smile! I was sad to see both Ruth and Don’s passing. They are now visiting in heaven with their Boulder and Helena friends…of which there were many! Many thoughts and prayers to you.
Lauren Larson Murphy
Concettta & Len Eckel says
We first met Don when he “worked” the bike rides and was particularly excited when he and Ruth (one of my tennis buddies) met and subsequently married. They were always the happy couple and both felt fortunate to have found one another. In these past few years I saw them when they came to the AARP Tax site. I will miss seeing them next year, but will always think fondly of them. We are sorry we will miss the service since we will be out of town, but send our best wishes to the family. Peace be with you all!
Carol Krugjohn says
Connie, that is such a beautiful tribute to Don. We so enjoyed the many family reunions/gatherings we spent with them in. Don and Ruth stayed with us a few times when they came to Rapid City to visit my mom, Ruth’s sister Maxine. One of the most memorable times I had with Don was when he showed us his book on the Honor Flight to Washington DC, and told us all about it. I was so happy he got to go. My father was never able to make it. My mom loved to travel with Don and Ruth. He always looked out for mom and Ruth. I will miss both Aunt Ruth and Uncle Don. They were great people.
Emily LaSalle says
Connie I met your father while working for Rocky Mountain Development Council. He was a true gentleman. Each time I visited with your dad he taught me something, whether it was one of his adventures he shared or a life experience he wanted me to learn from he always spoke from the heart. He loved you Connie. He’d share stories of you, you made him very proud.
It’s a sad time for us, how I wish there were more Don Cullen’s in this world. Your dad was a real treasure. ♥️
Linda and Earl Butenhoff says
A beautiful tribute to Don! Earl and I always enjoyed the family reunions with my Aunt Ruth and Uncle Don! They were both full of life and enjoyed being with all their family! I remember us all having a great time in South Dakota at those get togethers. Don sure loved his bicycle rides too! I always admired that he was such an active person. Aunt Ruth was my Dad’s youngest sister. She was such a kind, caring lady. My Dad and Don had many good laughs together! We will miss Aunt Ruth and Uncle Don. Many fond memories of them! They were super nice people. ❤
Carol Evans says
A life well lived. Your dad’s biggest legacy is his family, a daughter who loved him beyond measure and emulated his character and values. Rest in peace, Mr. Cullen, until we meet again.
Nancy Yager says
My condolences to you Connie I am not surprised by the close passing of Don and Ruth, they did everything together so going to heaven together is the perfect end to a life well lived. I was blessed to have gotten to know them the last years. The obituary you wrote was beautiful. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rod and Donna Hodgson and all our family. says
You have been such a blessing to your dad. He, Ruth and Elaine could not help but feel the love you always had for them. What a wonderful life you were able to spend together. Don accomplished all he wanted in life, and I’m sure much more.
Deb Kralicek says
So sorry to hear of Don and Ruth’s passing. Knew Don and Elaine at square dancing and had a great time. I met Ruth when I was in Rainbow girls, and she was always so kind and helpful. Then had the privilege of meeting up with her again when she and Don were married. I remember Don drive the Hats bus and picking up my mother-in-law. The time Don ordered pizza at a square dance convention and then left before the pizza arrived and had forgot to pay. I always told him he owed me for the pizza. He said he was just doing the leg work for us. Had a great sense of humor and such a special man. Always a smile and a good word.
Teri Swenson Yeager says
So many words flow when thinking of Don/dad: love, family, service, gentleman, intelligence, humor, curiosity, energy … joie de vie! I spent as much time in your home as mine – still do!! – and am forever shaped by your parents. Mom, dad and Ruth. ❤️
Linda Gryczan says
Don introduced himself at a Helena Bike Club meeting, as a friend of my parents. Don’s friend Dinny Nelligan, was my mother’s best friend. This group of lifelong friends has lost a key organizer, who was always generous with his time. What a good soul. I wish his friends and family well. Linda Gryczan, parents Ed and Helen Lewis Gryczan.
Lori Moro says
Dear Connie, My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lois Simpson says
Connie,
I don’t know you but I knew your dad from his years at Rocky Mountain Development Council. He was such a pleasant guy and always had a teaching moment. I really missed him when he stopped driving the bus and coming around the the Neighborhood Center. Then one day he shows up with “The Daughters of the Nile”. He got me completely hooked on their trail mix. It wasn’t the same when he quit selling for them. May he rest in peace and I surely miss his smile.
Gary Whitney says
Conne, my heart goes out to you with everything you have been through the past few weeks. You have been such a huge comfort to your father. Your dad was my first boss, and an outstanding role model who helped shape a naive young entrepreneur. The bond you and he shared is something to be treasured always. Our families will forever be connected through the shared experiences of an extended loving “Smith School and Helena High” family. We are all better humans for having known your father. Big hugs!
Inez and Wally says
Heartfelt prayers and thoughts to the family at this difficult time. May all the good memories help comfort you now. And keep those memories of them close to you. Take care Pam and Dan.
Dani Crowley says
Don sure had a full, long life…His huge, genuine smile and the gleam in his eye are what come to mind when I think of your precious dad. His keen wit, dry sense of humor and sage advice were always present. He made a big impact in many people’s lives for many years!! What a gift to be loved so dearly by two wonderful wives and to be blessed by you, Bill and Alison!! You have always been the apple of his eye and still are…I’m sure he will continue to watch over you intimately each day!! I’m so glad you had such an amazing opportunity to be fully present, attentive and lovingly sharing incredibly special moments with your dad and Ruth these last few months!! You were their angel!! Much love to you, Bill and Alison. Your cousin, Dani Sue
Drew Dawson says
Although I was only about 10 years old when Don and Elaine moved from Boulder to Helena, I remember them (and the service station) well, and certainly have memories of Cullen’s 66 in Helena. Don was a fantastic man! My condolences to the family.
Robert E. Bowman says
Sincere sympathy Connie and family. Your Dad and Ruth were always so young and active. I know they enjoyed life and I always enjoyed seeing them at family gatherings. I remember him bicycling, and will miss him and Ruth. God bless you! 🙏
Paul and Jo says
Oh Connie, we are so very sorry for your loss of your Dad and Ruth. 😢 Our thoughts and prayers are with you. What a beautiful tribute to your Dad!💕 He sure lived life to the fullest. God bless you and give you strength!💕
Donna Turcott says
Dear Connie,
My sincere sympathies go out to you as you mourn the loss of your dad and Ruth. They were so beautiful together—and I’ll always remember them that way.
Love and hugs to you,
Donna Turcott
Roy Moreno says
Sorry to hear about Don’s passing I work with Don at TST we drove fire bus cpl times on same fire the last one one near Libby Dam He always call our boss to let him know where we were asked why he did that I said if he does not know where we are we can stay here longer he put his arm on my shoulder an laughed he told me Bob knows you won’t call and asked me too my sincere condolences he will be miss RIP DON