William "Billy" Michael Cullum

Billy Cullum, 61, of Unionville, MO, passed away suddenly at the Putnam County Memorial Hospital in Unionville, MO, on Saturday, February 13, 2016.

William Michael Cullum was born in Unionville, MO, on October 7, 1954, the son of William and Mary Jo (Pickett) Cullum. He spent most of his childhood and youth years in Unionville and graduated from Unionville High School in 1972. Billy Mike began almost immediately a 20 year career as an over-the-road truck driver, driving for several different companies. Billy Mike left the road in 1992 to study drafting at Indian Hills Community College and obtain a drafting degree from that school. He then worked as a draftsman for Energy Manufacturing in Monticello, IA, John Deere in Ottumwa, IA, and C. C. Manufacturing. Billy returned to trucking in 2004 and drove for Greg Fleshman, Tico, and Jerry Mullenix, all in Putnam County.

Billy Mike liked just about anything to do with the outdoors. He liked to bird hunt in his younger years, but he also liked to deer hunt and fish. He enjoyed any time he spent on the water. He enjoyed camping in his camper, usually staying close to home. Billy Mike liked to mushroom and rock hunt and spend time in nature. Most of all Billy loved his grandkids and counted any time spent with them as most treasured. Billy had a host of friends and acquaintances and will be missed by everyone who knew him. His sudden passing leaves a large void in the hearts of many.

Billy is survived by three children: Heather (Mike) Flahive, Albia, IA; Cody (Amy) Cullum of Unionville, MO; and Kelsey Boone, Centerville, IA. His four grandkids are Hannah Flahive, Michalyn Cullum, Karson Cullum, and Kaison Schwering. Billy is also survived by his companion, Jessica McQueen. His brother, Jon Cullum, and sister, Julie Cullum, both of Unionville, MO, also survive.

Funeral services for Billy will be at Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home in Unionville, MO, at 10:00 AM on Wednesday February 17, 2016. Visitation will be from 4:00 - 8:00 PM on Tuesday, February 16. Interment will be at the Unionville Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Cullum Memorial fund as a college fund for Billy’s grandchildren. These may be entrusted with Playle and Collins Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.