Cullen R. Schwemer

Cullen Richard Schwemer, MD

A Life Well Lived

Cullen “Cully” Richard Schwemer, MD—a devoted husband, father, board-certified psychiatrist, educator, veteran, and mentor—died peacefully at Calista Court under the care of Winona Hospice on May 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 3, 1935, he lived a life defined by intellect, integrity, compassion, and an abiding devotion to the service of others.

He graduated in 1957 from the College of the Holy Cross Naval Science ROTC unit with a bachelor’s degree in physics before entering the United States Navy on June 12 of that year. He served as a Meteorological Watch Officer on Midway Island, where he forecasted and analyzed weather conditions with care and precision. His years in military service deepened the discipline, steadiness, and sense of responsibility that would remain hallmarks of his character throughout his life.

Following his military service, Cullen earned his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. During his training, he met Julieanne at Milwaukee Children’s Hospital in 1963, where she served as head nurse and he was completing his pediatric rotation. They were married on June 13, 1964, beginning a partnership of deep love and devotion that endured for more than sixty years. He later completed an internship in Internal Medicine and a residency in Psychiatry. Over the next six decades, he built a distinguished career marked by clinical excellence, wise judgment, and unwavering dedication to his patients.

In 1965, Cullen and Julieanne made their home in the western suburbs of Chicago. There, he joined the faculty of Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine and later directed its psychiatry residency program. A gifted teacher and generous mentor, he helped shape the lives and vocations of many young physicians through his wisdom, encouragement, and high expectations.

His leadership extended well beyond academic medicine. He played an important role in the founding of Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, Illinois, participating in its groundbreaking in 1978 and later helping celebrate its opening. He also served on the Board of the DuPage County Health Department and as President of the Executive Committee of Good Samaritan Hospital, contributing in lasting ways to the health and well-being of the wider community.

In 1977, Cullen founded Suburban Psychiatric Association in DuPage County, a private practice that grew into a respected clinical organization employing nearly thirty people. He was also a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). Under his leadership, the practice became known for its professionalism, collaborative spirit, and thoughtful response to the mental health needs of the community.

In 2001, Cullen and Julieanne relocated to Winona, Minnesota, where he continued his work as Chief of Psychiatric Services at Winona Health. Together they built a rich family life centered on their children, Linus and Alana, and their grandchildren, Emily, Evan, Thor, Magnus, and Drake. Cullen retired from Winona Health at the age of 80, concluding his clinical career with gratitude and pride in the profession to which he had devoted so much of himself. Julieanne died on December 18, 2018, and her memory remained a steadfast and cherished presence in his life.

Beyond his professional life, Cullen found joy in the steady rhythms of daily practice and companionship. He practiced Latin each day, delighted in crosswords, wrote poetry, enjoyed birding and fly fishing, and loved sharing a good joke. He was Julie’s faithful sous chef, a member of the Great River Shakespeare Festival community, and a regular participant in the Elder Statesman group. He was also deeply involved with First Congregational Church, where he was active in fellowship. He loved good food, the arts, conversation, and intellectual pursuits.

Cullen’s life was marked by intellectual curiosity, faithful service, and a deep sense of responsibility toward others. He will be remembered not only for his many professional accomplishments, but also for his generosity, steadiness, and the quiet dignity with which he lived.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Parkinson’s Foundation or the New Melleray Abbey Child Casket Fund.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11am at Fist Congregational Church (161 W. Broadway St. Winona, MN) with visitation beginning at 10am. Cullen will be laid to rest at St. Aloysius Cemetery in Calmar, IA.

Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family.