Daniel Suleyman Cullu

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Daniel Suleyman Cullu, 71, who passed away peacefully on November 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family and close friends. Daniel was born on May 1, 1953, in Manhattan, Kansas, to Alice Wells Cullu and Suleyman Cullu, M.D. He was raised in Manhasset, Long Island, New York, before the family moved to Gainesville, Florida, in 1961 after the sudden passing of his father. Dan grew up in Gainesville, attending Littlewood Elementary, Westwood Jr. High, St. Andrews Prep School, and graduating from Gainesville High School. He went on to earn his A.A. degree from Santa Fe Community College and graduated with high honors from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Business Administration.

After graduating, Dan moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida, in 1980, and began his professional career. Initially trying his hand at manual labor, he quickly discovered his true calling in sales, working first for Aetna and then ITT. He found his niche in the financial industry, joining Smith Barney, and ultimately retiring after 38 years as a Senior Vice President and Investment Officer at Wells Fargo Advisors.

Throughout his career, Dan was a trusted financial advisor to many individuals and families, offering sound advice and personalized strategies for growing and safeguarding their wealth. He built deep, lasting relationships with his clients, guiding them through financial decisions with integrity, insight, and expertise. His clients appreciated his ability to simplify complex financial concepts and his unwavering commitment to their long-term financial success. Through his careful stewardship, Dan helped countless individuals and families achieve their financial goals, from saving for retirement to managing investments and planning for future generations. His professional influence extended beyond managing finances—he believed in empowering clients with the knowledge to take control of their financial futures.

Dan’s dedication to his community and the principle of giving back was equally evident throughout his life. He served on the City Ways and Means Committee, was President of his condo association, and took leadership roles in the Rotary Club and local educational committees. Through his volunteer work with the Pinellas Education Foundation’s Doorways/Take Stock in Children program, Dan provided scholarships and mentorships to deserving students, helping open doors to higher education and brighter futures. His efforts through the Rotary Youth Trust Fund raised over $800,000 in scholarships for Tarpon Springs students, underscoring his passion for helping others succeed.

Beyond his professional and community accomplishments, Dan was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his beloved wife, Valerie; his children, Alexander Cullu, Tonya Rolleston (Jacob), Annaleis Cullu, and Alivia Cullu; grandchildren Scarlett and Okley; his sisters, Suzan “Aliye” Cullu and Perrin Cullu Penniman; and his nephews, Scott, Kelby, Graham (Jaclyn) and Daniel (Rachel); and grandnephews, Callan, Liam, Dean and Lucas; and grandniece, Avalon. He was predeceased by his father, mother, uncles, aunts, and grandparents.

A man of faith, Dan was baptized and raised in the Episcopal Church. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family. His love for his children and grandchildren was evident in all aspects of his life, whether through coaching Little League baseball, supporting their academic achievements, or cheering them on in their athletic pursuits. His hobbies included boating, fishing, diving, bird  watching, and, above all, spending time with his family.

Dan’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his professional expertise, kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Rotary Youth Fund (c/o James Kopco, 28100 US Hwy 19 N #500, Clearwater, FL 33761) in memory of Daniel Cullu.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 on Saturday, November 9, in the Faith Chapel at the First United Methodist Church. Interment will take place at Cycadia Cemetery for a family service at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Daniel Suleyman Cullu, please visit our floral store.