Lawrence F. Culver Jr.

Lawrence F. Culver, Jr. passed away at home on January 22, 2018 at the age of 97.  He was a much-loved dad, grandfather, great-grandfather, a favorite uncle, teacher, coach, and friend and will be deeply missed by all.

He was born on September 2, 1920 in Veedersburg, Indiana to Lawrence and Helen Culver. He grew up in Oakland, California and considered that his hometown.  He graduated from Roosevelt High School in Oakland where he was a track and football athlete.

In 1939, he joined the Navy and served during World War II.  He held all enlisted ratings through Chief Petty Office, as well as the commissioned rank of Lieutenant (JG) before being honorably discharged in 1946.  For most of the war, he served on the battleship North Carolina as a turret captain. 

After the Navy, he completed his education at the California College of Arts and Crafts where he met and married Phyllis Gleason, his wife of 60 years.  Phyllis preceded him in death in 2009.

After teaching for 4½ years in San Mateo, California, the couple moved to Twin Falls in 1954 because of his love of the desert country.  There he taught mainly art and coached track at Twin Falls High School and O’Leary Junior High School until he retired in 1983.  He was active in area art associations as well as the Twin Falls Rifle and Pistol Club and the Jerome Gun Club.  He was an avid outdoorsman, handloader, a track enthusiast, and opera and art history buff.  He was a true renaissance man.  He influenced many and was respected by all who knew him.

Larry is survived by his son Fred (Sonja) Culver of Boise, daughter Anna (Don) Ritchey of Twin Falls, grandson Erick (Kari) Culver of Twin Falls, granddaughter Valerie (Jessie) Culver of Caldwell, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, his wife, and many friends. 

The family wishes to express gratitude to St. Luke’s Hospice and A Caring Hand for the care they provided Larry in his last days.  It was Larry’s wish to have no funeral services.