Arthur Cullins
SAN DIEGO – Arthur W. Cullins, 96, of San Diego, formerly of Sterling, passed away Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010, in San Diego. He was a painter, starting in his father’s painting and wallpapering business. He retired in 1975.
Art was born Feb. 22, 1913, the son of Harry and Anna Cullins. He was a 1931 graduate of Milledgeville High School. His family farmed in the Milledgeville area before moving to Sterling in 1939. Art was a sergeant in the Illinois Reserve Militia from 1939 to 1941. He married Helen Bontty on Dec. 21, 1974. She preceded him in death.
A motorcycle enthusiast, Art used to race bikes and did exhibition motorcycle stunts. He was a charter member of Rock River Riders Motorcycle Club; a member of the American Legion; and a 45-year member and past president of Rock Falls Eagles Club.
Survivors include two daughters, Judy (Roger) Scuffham of Deer Grove and Lou Ann Williams of
Florida; one son, Tim Cullins; three stepsons, Richard and Carl Cortez of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Ed Bontty of San Diego; 20 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, Harry Cullins.
Art loved people and having a good time. Besides his work at the Eagles Club, his greatest enjoyment came from running concessions at county fairs and carnivals throughout the state, which he did from his early 30s into his 80s.
Art led a full life and often said he hoped to live to be 100. A few weeks shy of his 97th birthday, he almost made it.
A memorial will be held at a later date. Arrangements were completed by Greenwood Memorial Park and Mortuary, San Diego.
Memorials may be donated to Eagles Club of FOE, 321 W. Second St., Rock Falls.
