Kenneth W. Culton

Kenneth W. “Ken, Papa, Daddy” Culton passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife, Susan and daughters, Tess and Claire. It was just like him to pass during a snowstorm given his love of the seasons.

Ken was a life-long educator and learner. He had a passion for knowledge, pursuit of truth and understanding. He was compassionate, inquisitive, and endearing. Any conversation with Ken you could walk away with a new-found idea or perspective. There were no walls for people to put up when they spoke to him. They could be themselves.

Ken loved reading, chess, being outdoors by a fire, delicious food, slow burning cigars and top-shelf whiskey. He loved the social work students he taught at the University of Illinois and Southern Illinois University. In retirement, Ken delivered meals to people in southern Illinois without the means to acquire their own food. In his own words, it was a humbling and powerful experience.  He loved his dog, Rip and his cat, Daisy. More than anything, Ken loved his family. He poured every ounce of his love into his 35-year marriage and the upbringing of his children.

Ken was born August 16, 1955 to Richard and Marlyn Culton in Elgin, IL. He grew up with his brother Rick and twin sisters, Julie and Janet, first in Weathersfield, IL and then Springfield, MO. He is survived by his sisters, Julie Davidson and Janet Cafer and her husband Jim, who provided immense support during his illness. Also surviving are his in-law family, Anne and Paul Luering along with Carol Hartmann and George Polke. He was well loved by nieces and nephews, Bryan Davidson, Jason Davidson, Christine Cawthra, Jay Looney, Ryan Luering, Lisa Luering, Max and Brody Hartmann Polke and their respective families. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Rick.

Susan, Tess Culton and Jesse Dobrinich, and Claire and Lucas Davis will live on knowing that Ken is with us every step of the way.

The family would like to thank Sam Lubner MD and the staff of UW Health for their outstanding, compassionate care. Ken's wishes were to be cremated and so we also thank Cress Funeral Home for their guidance and support. 

If inclined, please consider the following memorials: Senior Adult Services, 409 N Springer St Carbondale, Il 62901; YMCA Family Camp Nawakawa, 13400 Camp Nawakawa Lane, Lac Du Flambeau, WI 54538 or the Dane County Humane Society, 5132 Voges Rd, Madison, WI 53718

His Grandmother Culton introduced Ken to the world of reading, and in particular, William Shakespeare. Ken shared this partial quote with family last August who gathered for his birthday. "Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none..." William Shakespeare, All's Well That Ends Well.

Cress Funeral Home Sun Prairie

608-837-9054