Steven Leo “Bucky” Kullman October 16, 1963 - October 15, 2026

Steven Leo “Bucky” Kullman

October 16, 1963 – October 15, 2026

Steven Leo Kullman, affectionately known to everyone as “Bucky,” was born on October 16, 1963, to Raymond and Sue (Joslin) Kullman.

He is survived by his loving parents, Sue and Raymond Kullman; his siblings, Kim (Greg) Hitchingham, Jennifer (Tim) Conroy, Alan (Sandy) Kullman, and Linda Clouse; and his many nieces and nephews, who lovingly knew him as “Uncle Buck,” including Daniel (Smerllin) Hitchingham, Justin (Amber Demers) Kullman, Jacob (Carlee) Lazarov, Joslin (Sean) Ouellette, Zachary (Arielle) Lazarov, Kristin (Brandon Phronebarger) Kullman, and Spencer (Chloe Ilacqua) Clouse. Bucky was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Anthony “Tony” Clouse, and his grandparents, Leo Joslin, Ruth Rassat, and Lillian Kullman.

Bucky was truly one of a kind, with a heart of gold, a playful personality, and a contagious laugh that could brighten anyone’s day. He had a special gift for making people feel welcome and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Bucky attended Sunnyfield School and proudly participated in the Special Olympics for many years, competing in swimming and running and earning numerous medals. After completing school, he worked for many years at Mid-Michigan Industries before beginning his 25-year career at the Shepherd Bar.

Growing up in downtown Shepherd and working at the Shepherd Bar gave Bucky countless opportunities to connect with people throughout the community. He could often be found walking the streets of Shepherd, stopping to visit with friends and making new ones along the way. Before long, he became affectionately known as “The Mayor of Shepherd,” because everyone knew Bucky, and Bucky seemed to know everyone. He had an incredible memory for names and personal stories, making each person feel remembered and valued. His friendships spanned generations, and if you were from Shepherd, chances are you knew Bucky—and certainly remembered him.

Bucky loved music and dancing. Two of his favorite television shows were Big Joe’s Polka Show and Lawrence Welk. He found happiness in life’s simplest moments and brought laughter, energy, and fun wherever he went.

To know Bucky was to love him. He was, quite simply, the sweetest soul. His warmth, humor, and genuine affection touched the lives of his family, friends, and community. Shepherd will be a little quieter without him, but the memories he created and the love he shared will remain with those who have known him for years to come.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to McBride Homes (3070 Jen’s Way, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858), where Bucky lived and was cared for during the past year. This organization reflects a meaningful part of his life and offers a wonderful way to celebrate his memory.

Bucky will be cremated and laid to rest at Salt River Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, November 22 from 1-4 pm at the Shepherd Maple Room.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever our Bucky. As Bucky would say, “What a day, what a year, what a Michigan. See you on the flip-flop.”

Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.