Michael R. McCullough

Michael Robert McCullough was born April 25, 1944, to Harry and Mary (Pendergast) McCullough, in Syracuse, New York. Mike entered eternal rest Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at Creston Specialty Care at 79 years, 5 months and 29 days old.

Mike grew up with three brothers and would get a twinkle in his eye while talking about his childhood, especially visiting their family farm in Phoenix, New York. He would often reminisce of summers at the family-built camp on Lake Ontario, “The Penderosa,” named after their mother, Mary Rosina. This camp became a treasured space for several generations to come.

He was a 1962 graduate of Christian Brothers Academy, later earning a degree in business management from Onondaga Community College in Syracuse, New York. Mike proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1967, specializing in rescue and survival instruction (Stead Air Force Base, Nevada). He had the unique privilege of guiding NASA Apollo 13 astronaut candidates through desert survival training while enlisted in the 336th Training Group (Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington).

He was united in marriage with Sharon Kay (Staples) and recently celebrated 55 years filled with cherished experiences and friendships. Mike and Sharon met many close friends in their travels, always showing people hospitality and hosting gatherings. They raised three beloved daughters, Patricia, Debbie and Jennifer. Mike devoted time to support his family showing Paint and Pinto horses and going on family trips.

Mike began his professional career at Oberdorfer Foundries as a sales territory manager in the northeast, where he fervently grew new business opportunities in high-grade aerospace casting and motorsport segments. He was integral in securing sponsorships within the Indy Car racing circuit, forming key partnerships with well-known drivers and development of engine casting programs.

Mike had a passion for people and a gift for connectedness. This allowed him to be a natural in building relationships throughout his career. In 1999, Mike followed his enthusiasm for the metalcasting industry to Creston, where he served as vice president of sales and marketing at Wellman Dynamics, a manufacturer which supplies aerospace castings to support military fleets, global disaster relief and space exploration. He resourcefully secured sponsorships with NASCAR and the World of Outlaws through the Toyota racing cylinder head program.

During his 24 years of service, he was driven to serve customers with his unwavering spirit. Mike was equally passionate about stewarding his resources to give back to the community through sponsorship, advocacy for manufacturing and sharing his appreciation for the quality of life in smalltown Iowa. He was a member of Crestmoor Golf Club, the Elks Lodge and past president of the Creston Chamber of Commerce.

Mike had a witty personality. He always loved a good joke, rhyming relentlessly and charming others with his stories. After work, you could find him extending a salute to friends at The Lobby in Creston or watching wildlife at Green Valley State Park. Leading by example, Mike prioritized building relationships. He shared stories of his life experiences and grew in fellowship with everyone he encountered.

With friendships built around the world, Mike had a knack for languages and enjoyed the camaraderie across cultural boundaries. His welcoming disposition let others know there was always a seat at his table. Mike’s legacy of genuine connectedness leaves us with an impactful reminder that our relationships, spirit and character are the only things we take when we leave this world.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Sharon, and their family: daughter, Jennifer McCullough (Brian Patrick) of Syracuse, New York, and Mary Volles of Syracuse; daughter, Debbie (Greg) Sawmiller of Lafayette, New York, and Michael and Sarah Sawmiller (siblings) of Lafayette; daughter, Patricia (Joseph) Magill of Virginia Beach, Virgina, and Tracy (Monica) Burdick of Lafayette, and Kathleen Magill of Pella. Mike is also survived by his brother, Harry Joseph Jr. (Kathy) McCullough of Auburn, New York; sisters-in-law: Patty McCullough of Sandy Creek, New York, Marilyn McCullough of Torrence, California, and Sandy Gibson of Pulaski, New York; niece, Barbara McCullough of Boston, Massachusetts; nephew, Patrick (Abby) McCullough of Richland, New York; four bonus grandkids; seven great-grandchildren; great-nieces and -nephews; and many other extended family members.

Mike was preceded by his parents, Harry Joseph Sr. and Mary Rosena (Pendergast) McCullough; brothers: Steven and Mark McCullough and an infant sister, Kathleen.

The family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3 in Creston at Pearson Family Funeral Service. Services will follow at 6:30 p.m., with Father Livinus Anweting, Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to the Creston Elks Lodge No. 605 or Care Initiatives Hospice in Creston.