In Memory Of Our Friend Chuck Culhane- Presente!
| In Memory Of Our Dear Friend Chuck Culhane |
| Chuck Culhane, Presente! Our Beloved Chuck Culhane has gone to the next adventure…. Crossed that river and on to the rest he so deeply deserved. Chuck served this community, and especially those suffering in the abyss of the Criminal Justice System, with every ounce of strength he had. He put himself at risk in so many ways, especially when he was still so vulnerable by being on parole, and supported others in every way he could. His generosity, love and courage are a lesson to us all on how to spend our time. We’ll let you know when there’ll be an informal memorial gathering for Chuck in Buffalo within the next couple of weeks, and there’ll be a memorial service for Chuck at Riverside Salem in the spring. It’s not completely unexpected. Chuck had health problems, and had a lot of losses over the years. The recent loss of his brother made him readier than ever. Chuck gave his cats away a week ago, feeling that he wasn’t able to care for them adequately anymore, and was getting ready to go on hospice care. Chuck Culhane served the Peace Center in so many ways: as the Prisoners’ Rights Taskforce Chair, Board Member, and dependable leader/participant in action after action. Chuck held down the weekly vigils outside Erie County Holding Center with Monica Lynch for many years, spotlight egregious neglect of and assault on prisoners there; sometimes with lots of others; sometimes as the two stalwarts left standing. Chuck was a part of so many groups and communities. He was a vital member of Riverside Salem UCC/DC. A service for Chuck – likely with a tree planting – will be done in the spring. He was part of virtually every local effort for justice re the criminal justice system, so NYS Jails Justice Network, CAIC’s Halt Solitary Campaign, Voice Buffalo, Prisoners Are People Too and others were groups he worked with, and his efforts to end the Death Penalty, and prevent those deaths were truly heroic. Chuck spent 26 years incarcerated (3 on death row under the ridiculous charge or felony murder, where he was powerlessly in the wrong place at the wrong time). His tireless advocate for criminal justice while on parole (29 years) was amazing,Chuck was a poet, a writer, painter, and patron of anyone pursuing the arts. He loved the theater and attended every chance he got! Living and working with PUSH, at their site at the former School #77, he was virtually always on hand for Ujima’s performances. Chuck’s compassion and generosity were truly outstanding… He gave whatever he had cheerfully making sure he never had much after giving it all away. Chuck was the first recipient of the Phoenix Award of the WNYPC in 2021, given for the way he came from the ashes of the prison industrial complex into a life of service, creativity, and love. He loved so well and we love him so well – May we take that love and share it as we work together for people and the planet. Another world is possible, and Chuck worked hard for it. Chuck was a shining example for us in so many ways!! You earned your rest, Chuck!! Thank you for your truth and love. Chuck Culhane, Presente!! |
