Cullen E Baker III

Cullen Edward Baker, III, 68 peacefully passed away on November 13, 2015 at his home in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Cullen was born October 23, 1947 in Nashville, TN. He graduated high school from Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville and from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He served two years in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict stationed in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Cullen rejoined the civilian world where he worked for several years in men's clothing and fashion, both in retail and as a model. He then became employed for many years of a long productive career in investments and brokerage, including a long association with John Hancock where he served as Regional Vice President for just under a decade. Cullen retired from the financial business and industry, but kept his hand in the financial world, at least part time, associating with Calton & Associates, Inc. in Tampa. He enjoyed his retirement years playing with his faithful cocker spaniels, Fred and Bam Bam, working out at the gym, golfing and pursuing his great life-long love of being on the water in his boat which involved a myriad of boat and water related activities. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Cullen E. Baker, Jr., and Mary Womack Cole. Cullen is survived by his sister Bette Madison of Atlanta, GA, his son, SFC Cullen Edward Dewees (Mary) of Yelm, Washington, two grandchildren, Austin Cullen Dewees and Elissa Virginia Dewees, long time friend and life partner, Pati Besl of Batesville, IN, and Bam Bam Baker, his beloved cocker spaniel and companion. Deep gratitude is expressed for the generosity, loyalty and compassionate care given by Empath Hospice, First Light Home Care and dear friend, and life partner, Pati Besl, as well as all those who provided love and support during Cullen's extended illness. A private memorial will be held at a later date. Condolences may be offered at www.beachmemorial.com.