Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
David J. Culyat
FUNERAL HOME
UPCOMING SERVICE
David Culyat Obituary
David J. Culyat, age 78, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
Dave was born and raised in Joliet and resided at his river house in Wilmington for many years. Dave always graciously opened his home for many gatherings and weekends on the river which brought him so much joy. When "off call" he enjoyed working in his yard, had an admiration for classic cars, and some of his happiest moments were spent with his family at Lake of the Ozarks. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota in 1970. Dave was a proud licensed funeral director working at Blake Lamb Funeral Home, Oak Lawn for 50 dedicated years. Dave was the gold standard in funeral service, guiding grieving families, and mentoring many young professionals throughout his remarkable career. He was a long-time member of Teamsters Union Local #727.
Preceded in death by his parents, Anthony & Irene (nee Nemeth) Culyat; stepmother, Ruth Culyat; stepsisters, Kathleen Malloy and Marianne Haley.
Survived by his loving sister, Kristine (Richard) Emerick; cherished nieces, Justine Domke and Natalie Fritz; adored great niece, Karissa Fritz; beloved stepsisters, Geraldine Sossong and Eileen Wills; loyal friends that became forever his family, Russ (Kathy) Horsley, Vicky Hollister, Kathy Bergstrom; and he will fondly be remembered as "Uncle Dave" to Jeff (Tasha) Horsley, Jaclyn (Zak) Sartori, Ella, Makenzi, Chase and Owen.
Dave will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Funeral services for Dave will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Farkas Funeral Home, 3201 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL at 7:00 pm. Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until time of services. Per his wishes, cremations rites will be accorded following services. Inurnment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to Just Animals Shelter in Dave's honor will be appreciated. www.justanimals.org/donate
For more information, please call 815-725-0100 or visit www.farkasfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for David Culyat
Memories and Condolences
for David Culyat
Sponsored by Farkas Funeral Home.
How you can show support
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in David Culyat's name
People and places connected with David
Joliet, IL
Herald-News
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support David's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor David Culyat's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
