WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Pastor Martin Henry Culver, age 82, of Portage, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at his home.
He was born March 6, 1944 in Detroit, the son of Worth D. and Mildred A. Culver. Marty graduated from Cooley High School and later enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era, serving honorably until his discharge.
On June 17, 1967, Marty married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Bates. The couple spent their early years in Petoskey, raising their two children in that beautiful northern paradise. As a family they enjoyed camping, sledding—especially “bump-jumping”—gardening, playing board games, and church activities. Many nights were spent stargazing from the back of the truck in the hills of their farm.
In 1991, Marty and Barbara moved to Suttons Bay, Michigan, where he began his ministry. Throughout his career he faithfully served several congregations, including Keswick United Methodist Church, Ionia United Methodist Church, Millwood United Methodist Church, and Center Park United Methodist Church. Although he retired in 2018 at the age of 74, Marty remained active in his faith community and continued to attend and serve at Center Park United Methodist Church.
Marty enjoyed traveling, especially on his many trips to Israel. He loved photography and had a talent for carpentry, often creating thoughtful gifts and warm, inviting living spaces with his own hands. By far, his favorite pastime was working on his small backyard pond while enlisting close friends to assist. Marty loved to spin tales and was always entertaining his company with the best stories.
He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Culver; daughter, Kristina (Timothy) Worgan; grandchildren, Nicholas (Jordan) Worgan, Riley Worgan, Annalise Worgan, Finn Culver, and August Culver; great-granddaughter, Charlotte Hardin; and brother, Michael (Patty) Butzke.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Culver, in 2023; his parents; his stepmother, Ethel Culver; his brother, Warren Culver; and his sister, Stephanie Witt.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Center Park United Methodist Church, 18662 Moorepark Rd., Three Rivers, with lunch to follow. Pastor Pat Catellier and Rev. Timothy Worgan will officiate.
Memorial donations in Marty’s honor may be directed to Kalamazoo Animal Rescue or Center Park UMC.
Arrangements by Hohner Funeral Home.
