Michael E. Culton

Michael passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

Michael was born on December 3, 1967, in Johnston, RI, to the late Earle Culton and late Harriet (D'Rezzo) Culton. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Kathleen, his uncle, David Marble of Florida and his in-laws, Maureen and Todd Mathieson.

Michael pursued varied interests and jobs. While living in Rhode Island he was a volunteer fireman at the local fire station, and went to New York City for the 9/11 clean-up process. He was a docent for The Breakers in Newport, RI. Michael moved to Berlin, Massachusetts in 2003 to live with his late aunt Enrica and her husband David.

Michael truly enjoyed fixing small machines and always had some yard equipment nearby to tinker with for a project. He was a one-man landscaper, working with nearby customers who became friends. He worked at different gas stations in Berlin and Marlborough and could be counted on to be kind and wash your window as needed. More recently, Michael had been volunteering at the Many Hands Thrift Shop in Berlin. He also went out of his way to find books at the Little Free Library at UMass Marlborough hospital for friends or finding the perfect seltzer flavor for a nurse he saw at one of his appointments. He remembered the little things and had a generous heart, even when he could not always express that in conversation.

Michael met his wife, Kathy, while she was working at her cash register. He would make a point to go through her line and her first impression was he was a persistent customer. He made her laugh and they started dating, eventually getting married in 2009 and settling in Clinton. While Michael was primarily a dog person before the marriage, he had some exposure to living with a cat. He will be missed by the couple’s most recent fur baby, a cat who has been a wonderful companion when he needed support. He was saddened when the world lost his favorite artist, Dolly Parton.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

Calling hours will be held later at the family’s request. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.