Donnie “Butch” Rann Culbertson, 81, of Vandalia, died peacefully, surrounded by family, on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at Haven of St. Elmo.
A fellowship will be held starting at 11 a.m. with a memorial service at noon on Friday, Oct. 2, at Vera Baptist Church, with Joe Lawson officiating. A luncheon will follow the service at Vera Baptist Church. A private burial will take place at a later time at Fairlawn Cemetery in Vandalia, with military rites performed by Brownstown VFW Post #9770 and Crawford-Hale American Legion Post #95 of Vandalia.
Mr. Culbertson was born April 22, 1945, in Vandalia, the son of Lowell and Helen (Carruthers) Culbertson. He graduated from Vandalia Community High School in 1963, where he was a member of the football, wrestling and track teams. He furthered his education by earning an associate degree in horticulture from Danville Community College.
He proudly served his country as a United States Marine. His service was an important part of his life and he carried the values of honor, loyalty, discipline and courage with him throughout the years that followed.
Mr. Culbertson built his own business, Culbertson Auction Services, which he successfully operated for more than 40 years. Known for his charm and ability to work a crowd, he had a natural gift for connecting with people.
He was raised in the Vera Baptist Church along with his seven siblings and was baptized in Hurricane Creek. He was a member of the Illinois Auctioneers Association and Vandalia Moose Lodge.
Those who knew Mr. Culbertson will remember him for his strong-will, charm and stubbornness. He was someone who knew his own mind, had a way of drawing people in and could make an impression wherever he went.
He enjoyed gardening and farming, taking pride in caring for the land and watching things grow. Of all his interests, he especially loved dancing. Whether at a family gathering or out on the dance floor, dancing brought him joy and gave him another opportunity to share his passion with those around him.
While he took pride in his work and his service, his greatest joy was his family, particularly his grandchildren. He loved being able to brag about them and share their accomplishments, personalities, and milestones with anyone who would listen.
Mr. Culbertson is survived by his three exceptional sons, Aaron Culbertson of Rantoul, Adam (Casie) Culbertson (GC) of Tinley Park and Nathan (Nicole) Culbertson of Metamora; beloved grandchildren, Emma, Jackson, Cory, Troy, Maya and Bradley; siblings, Elaine Culbertson, Susan Etcheson, Danny (Sharon) Culbertson, Sherry (Chris) Meador, Bob (Susan) Culbertson and Bill (Kathy) Culbertson; sister-in-law, Jan Culbertson; and many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Lonnie Culbertson.
Memorials may be made to Vera Baptist Church or the Vandalia Wrestling Club. Online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com.
