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Veteran Undertaker of City, Resident for 55 Years, Suddenly Stricken

Suddenly stricken with an internal hemorrhage yesterday morning, John Cullinan, of 107 Coleman street, veteran of Bridgeport undertakers and prominent in Irish-Catholic circles for more than half a century, died at the age of 84 in St. Vincent's Hospital last night. While he had been ailing all summer, the death stroke came unexpectedly and he was taken to the hospital for an emergency operation. He had been up and around and day previous.

Mr. Cullinan, who was the father of Thomas M. Cullinan and John J. Cullinan, members of the law firm of Cullinan, Cullinan and Keating had been a resident of Bridgeport 55 years, during all but six of which he was engaged in the undertaking business. He was prominently identified with all Irish societies in the city.

Born in 1840

Born in Ireland in 1840, he came to this country with his parents at the age of 10 years. His parents made their home in Springfield, where he resided until 1869, then coming to Bridgeport. Shortly after arrival he engaged in the undertaking business and remained actively interested in funeral directing until the partnership of Cullinan and Mullins was dissolved upon his withdrawal in 1918.

The dean of Bridgeport undertakers conducted his own business until 1875, when he joined in partnership with William F. Bishop, under the firm name Bishop and Cullinan. This partnership was dissolved in 1882, and Mr. Cullinan continued without a partner until 1899, when, upon the retirement of Frederick C. Mullins as city clerk, the firm of Cullinan and Mullins was formed.

Retires

After 19 years of business association with Mr. Mullins, this partnership was also terminated and Mr. Cullinan retired. Mr. Mullins then became senior member of the present firm of Mullins, Scott and Redgate.

Three children, Ellen, John J., and Thomas M. Cullinan, as well as a number of grandchildren survive. The funeral will be held Tuesday morning from his residence, 107 Coleman street and later from St. Augustine's Church. Arrangements have not been completed.