John S. Cullison, 89, died July 26, 2008, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.

He was born May 31, 1919, in Medicine Lodge, the son of John R. and Mary Ann Jarrett Cullison. He attended schools in Medicine Lodge. A resident of Hutchinson since 1952, moving from Medicine Lodge because of his transfer with the Kansas Department of Transportation, he was a maintenance equipment operator for the Kansas Department of Transportation.

He belonged to South Hutchinson Christian Church. He played country music at the Crystal Ball Room for 27 years, and at many local dances for over 60 years, with the "Country Rhythm Band." He served in the U.S. Army in the Tank Battalion.

On Jan. 28, 1945, he married Vulla Pearl Moore in Hardtner. She survives.

Other survivors include: two sons, John A., and Bennie, both of Hutchinson; six daughters, Donna Lightsey and husband Amos "Sonny," Nina Kocher and husband Richard, Cynthia Mears and husband Rodney, Patti Norris and husband Buddy, and Teresa Fultz and companion Bob Cornish, all of Hutchinson, and Lisa Goff and husband Rolland, Hepler; 29 grandchildren; and 56 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and six sisters.

Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2008, at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, with Pastor Brian Barrie presiding. Graveside service will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2008, in Highland Cemetery, Medicine Lodge, with military graveside rites conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday July 28, 2008, at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, with the family present from 7 to 8 p.m.

Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Reno County, Alzheimer's Association, or the John S. Cullison Memorial Fund, all in care of the mortuary.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave personal condolences for the family.