John M. Cullinane

John M. Cullinane of Needham, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend passed away on Jan 18, 2024. He was 82.

John was raised in Somerville and was a graduate of Matignon High and a proud alumnus of Boston College Class of 1963. His education instilled in him a deep love of learning, which he carried throughout his life. John was a successful executive in the field of commercial real estate management and brokerage where he made many contributions for Prudential, Peter Elliot, and Pinnacle Realty. John spent his life in the Boston area, which he loved dearly. He was known among his family for his deep knowledge of the city and history of the land, which he loved to share. John was a dedicated coach and advocate of CYO basketball at St. Bartholomew’s Parish. He was a passionate leader and organizer with the Boy Scouts of America. John was heavily involved with Troop 10 in Needham, and the recipient of The Silver Beaver Award, given for exceptional character and leadership within the Minuteman Council of Massachusetts. He led and mentored many boys on adventures across New England and beyond, and was known among scouts for his skills in wood carving. His passion for scouting was passed on to his sons, all of whom achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

He was an avid golfer and a member of the Sr Men’s league at Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton where he played almost daily (weather permitting). John loved reading, especially history books. He was often found in his garden tending to his flowers, feeding the birds, and chasing away squirrels. He loved a good barbecue with his family on warm Spring and Summer days. He enjoyed many happy vacations in Cape Cod with his family.

John is survived by his devoted wife Elizabeth “Bette” (Reardon) Cullinane of 53 years. He was the loving father of Megan Noone of Natick and her partner Mike Mastrorilli, Sean Cullinane and his wife Ada of West Bridgewater, Elizabeth “Beth” Starck of Burlington, Kevin T. Cullinane and his wife Elizabeth “Liz” of Natick, and Ian Cullinane and his wife Sarah Stretchberry of Sudbury. He leaves a lasting impact on his grandchildren Julia, Aidan, Riley, Philip, Jack, Annie, Elliette and Llewelyn. He was the brother of Eileen Woods of Medford and Thomas Cullinane and his wife Phyllis of Boston. He was predeceased by his parents, Father Michael and Mother Julia, and his sisters Mary Ragucci and Betty Fitzmaurice. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours Thurs Jan 25 from 4-8 PM at Eaton Funeral Home.

Those who knew and loved John are welcome at his funeral from the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Fri Jan 26 at 9:30 AM followed by a Catholic Mass at St. Bartholomew Church, Needham at 10:30 AM.

Interment will be private.

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