Donald Edwin Mcculley

Donald Edwin McCulley 84, Topeka, passed away September 22, 2021.

Don was born February 4, 1937 in Mound City, Kansas. He was the son to James and Helen (Robinson) McCulley and brother to Helen Gillum and Frank McCulley. Don was raised in nearby Pleasanton, Kansas. Don was raised working as a farmer, enjoyed hunting, fishing and ran track and played football at Pleasanton High School. He shared stories of growing up poor, how football helmets didn't have chin or face guards and of the time he scored a touchdown without even knowing it because there were no lines on the field. When telling the story of the touchdown, he also shared how the beautiful drum majorette/twirler on the sideline missed the play. He later married this beauty, D. June (Conley) on September 8, 1956. They shared 65 years of marriage.

Don and June moved to Topeka where Don worked on the Kansas Turnpike, worked for a boat manufacturer, and began his career with Dupont. Don started with the plant when it opened and retired when it closed. However, he retired on a Friday, and started on Monday with Flexel, the company that bought the plant. He ended up working at the plant for 37 ½ years. Don was the supervisor of maintenance and was known to be able to fix or build about anything. If there wasn't a tool available, he would often make a tool to get the job done. Don served in the Kansas National Guard and was honored to be a member of the Color Guard.

Don was a long-time member of Northland Christian Church since 1963. He served on the Board, served as Board Chairman, Elder, Deacon and was most proud of his service as a Sunday School Teacher. Don also literally helped build the church during its construction. It was his faith in the Lord that gave him strength during his battle with cancer.

Don loved to sing and play his guitar, often singing along with his great grandchildren. He regaled his family with stories of farming, M 80 fights with his neighbor Paul, rebuilding tractors, watching former Sunday School students grow up and have their own families and walk with Christ, retelling of how he met June and of course the occasional fish story.

Don and June had three daughters, Brenda Burgett (Mike), Cindy McAlexander (Kal) and Teresa Johnson (David). There are 7 grandchildren; Brian Burgett (Cammie), Brooke Unruh (Matt), Josh McAlexander (Rachelle), Jesse McAlexander (Jessy), Kalie McAlexander, Shane Johnson and Zachery Johnson (Cailin). There are also 7 great grandchildren; Cody Wood, Austin Burgett, Ashlyn Burgett, Rylie Unruh, Cade Unruh, Landon McAlexander, and Raelynn McAlexander. He was also survived by his brother, Frank McCulley (Janice).

He was preceded in death by parents and his sister, Helen Gillum.

The family will hold a private graveside service at Prairie Home Cemetery.

Donald will lie in state from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at Parker-Price Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 245 NW Independence Ave. Topeka, KS. No family will be present due to COVID19 protocols.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Northland Christian Church, 3102 NW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66617 or Midland Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.

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