Francis “Mickey” Culver joined the Greenbelt board of directors in 1998 and quickly brought his influential leadership to bear on all aspects of the organization. He was passionate about Greenbelt’s mission of land conservation and stewardship in Essex County, and he worked tirelessly over the years to help the organization grow in size, complexity and success. He served as president of the board from 2005-2008 and as treasurer since 2009. Mickey passed away in early December at the age of 68.
Mickey was passionate about sailing, boat building, history, invention, tinkering and taking care of things; he mentored youth and adults alike in all of these spheres. At Greenbelt, he had a similarly broad reach, with interest and impact in everything that he touched. As Kate Bowditch, new president of Greenbelt said on becoming familiar with Greenbelt’s financials, “I can see Mickey’s good care and clarity evident everywhere.” Those who collaborated with him looked forward to his late-night emails brimming with wise counsel and illustrated with perfect historic and literary references. He was instrumental in advancing Greenbelt’s organizational practices and served on many committees, where his presence was appreciated for his incisive analysis as well as for his wit and warmth.
His leadership was collaborative, smart, forward-leaning and consequential. Greenbelt is grateful for Mickey’s extraordinarily tireless and dedicated leadership, which has been an inspiration to all. He will be missed.