1919 ~ 2004
Hamer S. Culp, Jr. passed away peacefully on March 27, 2004, in Rancho Mirage, California. He spent his last days surrounded by his family and working through a life long frustration of how to convert a three-foot putt.
Dad was born in Salt Lake City on October 5, 1919, to Hamer and Maude Culp. He was educated in the Salt Lake City school system where he held numerous elected positions and then moved on to the University of Utah. Throughout his youth Dad held down several jobs and obligations, which produced many memorable stories for those of us who would listen. At the "U" he affiliated with the brothers at Beta Theta Pi and ultimately graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1940. Hamer then pushed ahead to Harvard Law School and began earnestly working on a career in law. World War II interrupted this pursuit, and Dad left for the Navy and assignments in several South Pacific locations as an officer on various sub chasers. Along the way, he somehow found time to propose and marry our mother, Jody Billings, who became his constant companion and partner until her death in 1991.
After safely returning from the war, Dad decided to return to Salt Lake and began raising his family. This commitment produced four children; Charles (Kathleen), Martha Karcich (Robert), Patricia Kimball (Richard, Jr.), and Katherine Wisniewski (Witek, d.1999). He also began a construction business, which initially provided housing for veterans returning from the war and affordable housing for those establishing new careers and families. Through his tireless work ethic, the company expanded into the commercial and institutional market, and completed a wide variety of projects which earned awards for both Dad and his company. During his business career, he served on a variety of boards and left a reputation with those he touched as an honest, committed, and responsible individual who treated everyone fairly and professionally. His meaningful and strong handshake became his word.
During his entire life Dad pursued a number of activities. He and Mom traveled to different locales in the world on behalf of People to People Sports and met and maintained friendships wherever they landed. He spent many days in the blinds at New State with his Chesapeake retriever, Sandy, and always took delight in not only the duck and geese dinners this produced, but in the associated stories that accompanied his conquests. After his retirement in 1986, he earnestly reinitiated his passion for golf and despite some minor physical complications never missed an opportunity to play. He liked a little wager to keep everyone's interest in the game, but always made a concentrated effort to settle at the end of the day. Dad played approximately 160 rounds last year and was on track to complete more than that in 2004. The manager and staff at the Country Club were an integral part of this experience, and we thank them for all their consideration.
Dad married Pearl Epling Forsey in 1997 and together they enjoyed a remarkable life. Dad truly loved Pearl for her beauty, zest for life, and the happiness she provided him so generously. The family is indebted to Pearl and the Forsey family for their graciousness, love, and support.
Our family would like to especially thank John Batson for his care and assistance with Dad's quality of life for the past three years. John is a truly unique individual, and a person we greatly admire and love. His devotion to Dad was without reservation and they became great friends and mutual admirers.
Dad leaves behind his wife, his four children and their spouses, eight grand children (Sarah, Abbey, Charlie, Ellie, Annie, Mary, Joanna, and Charlotte), and two great grand sons! (Andrew and Jack). After a private, family internment, a reception in his honor will be held at The Country Club, 2400 Country Club Drive on April 6, 2004, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dad's name to The Neighborhood House, 1050 West 500 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84104.
Dad, we wish you peace and happiness, and more success with that new putter.