Cover photo for Calvin V. Culbreath's Obituary
Calvin V. Culbreath Profile Photo
1930 Calvin 2020

Calvin V. Culbreath

September 28, 1930 — April 9, 2020

Calvin VanZant Culbreath was born September 28, 1930, in Manitou, Oklahoma to Thomas D. Culbreath and Myrtle Abernathy. He grew up in Colorado and joined the service where he served his country proudly. He served a total of 23 years, ten months and six days. He was a Tactical Wire Operator (36K) and Administrative Specialist (71L). He served with the OV-1 Bronco Unit 25th Infantry Division and became a Staff Sergeant/E6 in 1967. His bravery during the Korean War and Vietnam War earned him multiple distinctions and honors. For his service in Korea, he was awarded the Korea Service Medal for his service in defense of the principals and character of the United Nations. He served two separate tours in Vietnam; his first tour was from October 13,1967 to November 18, 1968; his second tour was from August 4, 1970 to July 9, 1971. He received two Bronze Star Medals with Oakleaf Cluster; the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB) United States Army First Award; the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Leaf for accomplishing deeds of valor and displaying heroic conduct while fighting an enemy force; the Vietnam Service Ribbon (VSR-2 stars, First Class) for exemplary service while performing military duty on the staff of a Major Vietnam Military Command; the Vietnam Campaign Medal (VCM); a Purple Heart Award; an Army Commendation Award (ARCOM) with Oakleaf Cluster; an Army Good Conduct Defense Medal (AGCDM); a National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) with Oakleaf Cluster; and an Expert Badge with Rifle Bar and Missile Badge. He retired with honors from the US Army at Fort Bliss, Texas, on May 31, 1975, and continued to live in El Paso, Texas with his family. Calvin passed away on April 9, 2020, of natural causes at Ambrosio Guillen Texas State Veterans Home. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings; his former wife Nivia Rosa Salinas; daughter Jeanette Emmelina Alba; grandson Adonai Culbreath Alba; and great-granddaughter Jeanie Alba. He is survived by his wife Isabel O. Culbreath; his children Jean Ymur Sheckler, Grace Elaine Isaac, and Melissa Lynn Fernandez; 9 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; his step children Molly Torres, Ray Torres, Roger Torres, and Maria Isabel Torres; 10 step-grandchildren and 10 step-great-grandchildren. He will fondly be remembered for his unconditional love, his generosity, his sense of humor, his unfiltered honesty, his tight hugs, and his firm handshake. He never left home without his esteemed Vet’s hat, and wore it with pride and honor. He was a hard worker, even at home, and instilled a strong work ethic in those who had the privilege to be around him. He also enjoyed spending time at Caballo Lake with his wife, whom he endearingly called “mamma,” and getting many hugs and kisses from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We will always remember his deep voiced twang that said, “I love you, honey.” He is forever loved and with us always.
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