Russell J. Kulinski, born March 5, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away leaving behind a legacy of service, devotion to family, and deep friendships that touched many lives.
Russ proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Bay of Pigs and the Cuban Missile Crisis. His commitment to service continued throughout his life. He dedicated 27 years to law enforcement with the City of River Rouge, where he rose through the ranks to retire as a respected Police Commander. He was proudly selected as Peace Office of the Year from the State of Michigan in 1982 for his outstanding personal bravery and attention to duty that reflected his dedicated service to his community. Following his law enforcement career, Russ retired to Hawaii and continued working with Hawaiiana Management Company as a residential building manager for 26 years until his second retirement in 2016.
Above all, Russ was a devoted family man. He shared 58 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife, Geraldine “Deenie” Kulinski. Together they built a life centered on love, loyalty, and family. He was a proud and loving father to Kriste Ferrell (Al) and Todd Kulinski, and a cherished grandfather to Jake Ferrell, Elise Ferrell, and Tyler Kulinski, each of whom brought him great pride and joy.
Russ was also a dear brother to Ronald Kulinski (Jan) and a beloved brother-in-law to Lorreta Redlowsk. He is survived by a very large and loving extended family that includes many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will remember him for his warmth, loyalty, humor, and unwavering support.
A man who believed deeply in community and camaraderie, Russ was an active member of several organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Elks, the Moose, and numerous other civic and fraternal groups where he formed lifelong friendships.
Russ will be remembered as a man of honor, strength, and kindness – someone who served his country, protected his community, and loved his family with his whole heart. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.
Family, friends, and all whose lives were enriched by Russ are invited to remember him with love and gratitude for a life well lived.
Funeral Mass for Russell will be celebrated 11:00 am Friday, March 13, 2026 at St. Joseph Shrine Catholic Church, Brooklyn, Michigan,
with Rev. Father Bob Pienta officiating. Military Honors will be performed by the United States Navy Funeral Honors Team.
Visitation for Russell will take place from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Thursday, March 12, 2026 at Purse & Son Funeral Home, Tecumseh, Michigan.