Edward Carl CulverPenn Yan, NY

Edward Carl Culver, age 79, of Penn Yan, NY, died peacefully at his home in Winona, MN, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

He was born on May 18, 1946, and raised by his parents, Chester and Pauline “Pearly” Culver, on the family farm in Penn Yan alongside his two brothers. He graduated from Penn Yan Academy in 1965.

After high school, Ed worked at Kodak before joining the U.S. Navy in 1966, where he served with the VQ-2 squadron. Following an honorable discharge, he became part owner of The Tavern in Penn Yan, where he met the love of his life, Linda Benham. The couple married on December 28, 1974.

After marriage, Ed began working for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 2006. Post-retirement, he spent more than a decade in real estate before relocating to Winona, MN, to be closer to his beloved grandchildren.

Ed was a gem of a person who appreciated all that life gave him. He was happiest when helping others and spending time with friends and family. With a gentle, unassuming ability to connect deeply with people, his kindness and curiosity left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was cherished by everyone who met him and will be missed immensely.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda (Benham) Culver; his son, Douglas (Stacy Hibbard) Culver; his daughter, Sarah (Ed) Hedin; his grandchildren, Pearl and Gus; his brothers, Bill (Hilary) Culver and Tim (Mary Lou) Culver; and his nieces and nephews.

A casual, family-friendly open house celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 3–6 p.m. at the Penn Yan Elks Lodge, 133 Main St., Penn Yan, NY, to share stories and laughter in Ed’s honor. A private burial will take place at Lakeview Cemetery on February 3, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a cause near Ed’s heart: the Mayo Clinic at https://www.mayoclinic.org/giving-to-mayo-clinic or The Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.