James Leroy Culver

Born a proud Scot on October 8, 1939, in Los Angeles, California, he was the firstborn to James Sr. and Anne Culver. After graduating from Mackenzie High School, he bravely served his country in the US Army before graduating from the Detroit Institute of Technology and Wayne State University. He went on to become a police officer with the Detroit Police Department and then a federal agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Throughout his career, he fiercely protected the City of Detroit and had an incredible impact on the agents he led, who affectionately coined the nickname “Curly”.

James passed away on November 29th, 2023, with his wife and daughters by his side.

James was happily married to his devoted wife, Ann Elizabeth Culver, for 24 years at the time of his death, though they had spent a total of 32 wonderful years together. He is survived by Ann; his 4 children, Jennifer (Anthony “Tony”) Sabatini, Scott (Marion) Culver, Angelica (Jonathon “Jon”) Allen, and Allyssia Gutierrez (a/k/a “Squigmont”); his brother Todd (the late Sandra “Sandy”) Culver; and his 6 grandchildren, who lovingly referred to him as their “Papa Jim”—Anthony Sabatini, Gabrielle Sabatini, Michael “Mike” Sabatini, Anne Culver, Lauren Culver, and Jack Allen.

Aside from his successful career, James was highly intellectual yet held a deep appreciation for the simple beauty that life had to offer. His inquisitive nature led him to many interests and hobbies. He was a natural athlete, having played competitive baseball, racquetball, and golf. James would also enjoy playing Saturday morning football games on Belle Isle with his co-workers as well as playing tennis, a sport that he enjoyed playing with his two oldest children during their childhood. He was a formidable opponent in pool, darts, and euchre. James was a very skilled craftsman, a prolific writer and storyteller, and an avid photographer. He even joined a sailing team that raced across the Great Lakes one summer just for the experience. Additionally, Jim loved nature. He had a keen affection for all animals, most especially his dogs. He and Ann took on the adoption of and provided sponsorship to many deserving dogs over the years.

Jim deeply cherished the many special memories made with his family and lifelong friends at the lakehouse in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He was well known for his orchestration of many spectacular beachside Fourth of July fireworks shows that were enjoyed by all of Round Lake. Another very special place for him was the nearby wild blueberry fields that he would visit with his daughters and dogs.

Above all else, he loved his kids. He was an incredible father who took great pride in his children and their accomplishments. He relentlessly supported them and was always there to give a word of encouragement, a wink, or one of his many pearls of wisdom. He instilled in them deep compassion, humility, an unwavering moral compass, and a strong work ethic.

James was a true leader in all aspects of life, and a loyal friend and mentor to many. He was funny, loving, and kind, and would never shy away from the challenge of a good healthy debate. His “big barrel laugh” and quick wit will be deeply missed.

For a stirring law enforcement tribute about Jim, please read this article that has received praise and admiration from local, state, and federal law enforcement:

https://deadlinedetroit.com/articles/31530/retired_detroit_atf_agent_james_culver_dies_at_84_helped_take_down_city_s_major_drug_gangs

James is preceded in death by his mother; his father; his youngest brother, US Navy pilot Kenneth Culver; and his beloved late wife, Sue Culver. He is greatly missed and will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

A memorial service to honor Jim will be held at Great Lakes National Memorial on Thursday May 2, 2024, at 11:00 am. A celebration of life luncheon will be held at the Polish Cultural Center of Troy, MI at 1:00 pm on the same day.

The family welcomes donations made in his honor to Hawkeye and Friends Dog Rescue; an organization that held great meaning to him. https://www.hawkeyeandfriends.org

Please share memories of Jim at his guest book below.