Donald P. Culkin

FULTON – September 7, 2026, Donald P. Culkin, 89, of Fulton passed away Monday, September 7, 2026. He was born July 23, 1937 in Syracuse, New York to Jerome F. and Elizabeth (Whelan) Culkin. Don proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army and honorably served his country during the Korean War. His dedication to serving others was a reflection of the kind of man he was throughout his life. He was hardworking, dependable, and always willing to do what was needed for the people he loved.

After his military service, Don began a career as a bus driver with Centro, where he worked for more than 40 years. He truly enjoyed his job and took particular pride in driving Syracuse University route. His work was much more than a simple job, it was something he found pride in, and over the years he became a familiar and trusted face to countless passengers.

Don was a man of tremendous work ethic. He often worked extra hours, making sacrifices that allowed him to provide his children with opportunities, including a catholic school education. His family meant everything to him, and he showed his love not only through his words, but through the countless things he did for them throughout his life.

Don was deeply proud of his Irish Catholic heritage and remained devoted to his faith and his community. He was a member of the American Legion and the Pastime Athletic Club on Syracuse’s Northside. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and bowling, creating memories and friendships that stayed with him throughout his life. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Donald is survived by his wife of 29 years, Maria F. Culkin; his children, Donald A. Culkin of Clay, Christine (Dave) Demong of Solvay, Timothy Culkin of Clay, Kevin (Kristen) Culkin of Chittenango and Sean (April) Culkin of North Syracuse; his step-children, John (Rose) Flynn of Fulton, Kathy (Bill) Yahner of Central Square, Mike (Grace) Flynn of Oswego, Mary Brady of Fulton, Daniel “Boc” (Shannon) Flynn of Fulton and Brian (Chrissy) Flynn of Fulton; eight grandchildren; 22 step-grandchildren as well as several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Robert, Mary, John and Edward; his grandson, Justin; his step-granddaughter, Maria and by his step-daughter, Cynthia.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Brown Funeral Home, 21 Flood Drive in Fulton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2026 at Holy Trinity Church, 309 Buffalo St., Fulton. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in DeWitt. Contributions in Donald’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, online at www.diabetes.org or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at www.stjude.org/donate. Condolences for the Culkin family may be left at www.brownfuneralhomefulton.com.