Merle Ray Culbertson

Merle Ray Culbertson, 94 of Lee Summit, Missouri formerly of Odessa, Missouri passed away Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. Luke Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri surrounded by his family. 

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO 64076, 816-633-5524. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the funeral home. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday August 30, 2024, at Mound Grove Cemetery 1818 N River Blvd, Independence, MO 64050. Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association or a church of your choice. Memories of Merle and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 South Second Street, Odessa, Missouri 64076, 816-633-5524.

Merle was born March 31, 1930, in Nevada, Missouri to John and Beulah (Ogle) Culbertson. He graduated in 1948, from William Chrisman High School. After high school, Merle honorably served his county from 1951 to 1953, in the United States Army during the Korean War. Merle worked for Armco Steel as a bolt maker where he retired after 33 years. Merle was united in marriage on December 11, 1951, to Janet (Closson) Culbertson in Independence, Missouri. In 1955, he was baptized RLDS and held his faith close to his heart throughout his life. He found joy in planting and nurturing trees, constructing birdhouses, creating miniature trains, and tinkering and riding his tractor. Merle's passion for these hobbies shone through in his craftsmanship and dedication

Merle is survived by his loving wife, Janet C. Culbertson of Lee Summit, MO; five children, Cynthia (Jim) Whiting of Yankton, SD, Sharon (Greg) Bolliger of Overland Park, KS, Janice “Darlene” Culbertson of Lee Summit, MO, William Culbertson of Yankton, SD, and Elizabeth VanWinkle of Lee Summit, MO; seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren; one sister, Kathryn Louise (Wayne) McRae of Oak Grove, MO; one brother Eugene (Carol) Culbertson of Centerview, MO; special family members; Robert (Adelina) Gray of Pheonix, AZ and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Merle was preceded in death by both his parents, and a granddaughter, Karina Quail.