Robert Frances Cullen, 74, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, one day after his birthday. Born on May 14, 1952, Robert lived a life grounded in loyalty, quiet kindness, stubborn determination, and an unwavering love for the people around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Janice Smederovac and Matthew Smederovac, the man who raised and loved him as his own. He also carried the name of his biological father, Robert Cullen. We take comfort in imagining that somewhere beyond this life, all of them are together again, along with his best friend Jeff Daniels, probably waiting on a golf course fairway while his dad cracked a joke at just the perfect moment to make him shank a shot into the trees.

Robert is survived by his loving partner of more than 30 years, Christy Ackerman; his daughter, Amelia Cullen; his stepdaughters, Melissa Ackerman and Laura Barton; and his siblings, Kathy Szotek, Karen Hunt, and Moe Smederovac. He also leaves behind many extended family members, lifelong friends, and the cherished community he found at the Moose Lodge.

Anyone who knew Robert knew the simple things made him happiest: a good (or bad) round of golf, reruns of The Andy Griffith Show, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and time spent with friends. He was the kind of person who showed up when it mattered, who loved without judgment, and who made people feel safe simply by being there.

Though our hearts are broken by his loss, we know he lives on in the stories, habits, humor, and love he passed down to his family and friends. We will miss his hugs, his voice, his strong hands, and his steady presence more than words can say.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First Tee – Tampa Bay, a youth golf charity. Operating as a branch of the YMCA of the Suncoast, the program provides affordable golf instruction and character-building life skills to underserved youth throughout the Tampa Bay area, ensuring that no child is ever turned away because of an inability to pay.