February 10, 1949 - August 13, 2026
John Douglas Culbertson, 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Hot Springs, South Dakota on August 13, 2026.
John was born to Edna and Robert Culbertson in Sturgis, South Dakota on February 10, 1949. He was the second of 5 children, and shared a birthday with his youngest sibling, Bob. As a young man, John proudly served his country as a Vietnam-Era Seabee in the United States Navy from January of 1968 to November of 1971. He was also an accomplished finished carpenter, known for his skill and precision.
Beyond his work, John’s true passion was music. A gifted musician, he was especially known for his exceptional guitar playing. Whether playing at church or with numerous bands, performing for family and friends, or simply playing at home, he had a remarkable ability to captivate those around him. He was inducted in the Legends of Dakota Country Music Hall of Fame in 2019. Music remained one of the great joys of his life.
John shared his life with his beloved wife of 35 years, Mary Culbertson. He was the proud father of five, Kellie, Stephen, Tyler, Justice, and Janet. In addition, he had 6 grandchildren, Darian, Cody, Kaleb, Ethan, MacKenzie and Zyla, and three great-grandchildren, Donovan, Ambrea and Desimae.
A devoted man of God, John was an active member of the Southern Hills Evangelical Free Church of Hot Springs, where he faithfully shared his gift of music by playing during worship services. His faith guided his life and was reflected in the kindness, generosity, and compassion he showed to others.
Those who knew John will remember his humble, quiet nature, warm heart, committed faith, and wonderful sense of humor. He never sought the spotlight but had a way of making people laugh with his keen and witty presence.
John is survived by his wife, Mary Culbertson of Hot Springs; children, Kellie (Daniel) Burns of Paulden, Arizona, Stephen Culbertson of Bend, Oregon, Tyler Culbertson of Knoxville, Tennessee, Justice Culbertson of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, and Janet Culbertson of Hot Springs; grandchildren, Darian (Adril) Montoya, Cody (Emily) Burns, Kaleb Burns, MacKenzie Grams, Ethan Grams, and Zyla Culbertson; greatgrandchildren, Donovan, Ambrea, and Desimae; sisters, Janis Culbertson and Karlene (Dwight) Griffee; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and other beloved family members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Culbertson; his mother, Edna Matz; his stepfather, Earl Matz; his brother, Robert Culbertson; and his sister, Sherrill Dennis.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Camp Hallawasa, PO Box 567, Hot Springs, S.D., 57747 Services were held Friday, August 21, 2026 at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. Burial followed at Black Hills National Cemetery.