David Daniel Cullen (56) was born on April 8, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, to David J. Cullen and Carol M. Cullen and went to be with the Lord on July 8, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on July 19, 2025, at North Isanti Baptist Church in Cambridge immediately followed by an outdoor picnic lunch filled with “Dave stories” at Vegsund Family Park in Stanchfield. A time for visiting will be held 1 hour prior to the service at church.
David was known as a dynamic, funny and charismatic character who lived life “Fired Up!” He graduated from D.C. Everest in Wausau, Wisconsin, and attended college at the University of Minnesota. After joining the Army National Guard in 1993, he soon became Army National Guard Soldier of the Year. He advanced rapidly throughout his distinguished military career, serving in Basrah, Iraq, and ultimately retiring as Sergeant Major, all while building countless loyal friendships over the years.
David married and in 2002 welcomed his only child, Ellie Marie. He demonstrated dedication as a loving parent, actively participating in Ellie’s academic and extracurricular pursuits, coaching her softball team and encouraging her talent for golf – a sport they truly enjoyed together (giving Ellie some of her greatest memories with her dad).
David was passionate about health and bodybuilding, competing successfully in several competitions, most recently earning first place in his age group. Known for his healthy meals as the “family chef,” he was equally enthusiastic about his sweet tooth! He was an avid “Packer Backer,” appreciated the beauty of a tropical beach and in more recent years, enjoyed learning to play instruments. After moving to Cambridge, he took great joy in watching the wild creatures near his house, constructing rock walls, gardening, dancing and snuggling up with his pets.
David loved his daughter, his family and his girlfriend, Allyssa, dearly. He held a strong faith in God and prayed for his family and friends daily.
He is survived by daughter, Ellie Marie Cullen; father, David J. Cullen; girlfriend, Allyssa Mattson; sisters, Kelly (Robert) Darragh and Michele (Corey) Baumann; nieces and nephews: Robby Darragh, Adam Darragh, Breanna (Alex) Zajicheck, Michaela (Nick) Peterson, Noah (Ashley) Baumann, Alexa Baumann and Jonah Baumann. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carol Cullen.
Prayers and Hugs for his family and friends.
The Cullen Express .. often pointed out the obvious silliness..
Thank you for your service to this great nation! 🫡🇺🇸
He was a bright light and grateful to have been in his presence! He was a brilliant soul and thank you for your service to our country too! 🙏💗
Dave was one of a kind, i remember the first time he came up to me at the gym last year. He was open and kind, he always had the best advice Dave and I had gotten really close during my time at the gym. There was days he would text me to see if I was at the gym just to come up and say hi and chat for a bit. Dave always wanted better for me, he pushed me when I needed a push, he told me to slow down when he seen me doing too much. Dave was a genuine soul and he will always have that place in my heart.
Really going to miss you man.
Our Deepest Sympathies to the whole Cullen Family as you walk through this difficult time. We’re so sorry for the great loss of your Dad, Son, Brother, Uncle, Loved One, and friend. May your cherished memories comfort you, I’m hoping your thoughts are flooded with good times and the love you shared. May God give you the Grace and Strength you need from moment to moment! Our prayers are with you at this sad time. Love, Amy and Gary Asmus
I hadn’t spoke with Dave in a few years, but I think about him from time to time. He was a huge influence on my life. While the Lord blessed me with amazing brothers, Dave became an additional big brother in my life when I was just 17 years old, as he was my brother’s recruiting partner in the MN ARNG. Dave was always in my corner and often my biggest cheerleader. I lived with him for a couple years from 2005-2007 until he helped me to transfer to San Diego – we would play Madden football every evening and play golf practically every weekend. I got to spend a lot of time with his daughter, Ellie (which I’m guessing was too small to remember), who definitely had her dad’s quiet coolness about her, with a smile that could light up a room.
One particular story that I can share… I had brought a girl over and when I began to introduce her, Dave cut in and said, “No names…. they’re never around long enough and i don’t want to make it personal” in only a way that Dave could say it. True, she never did return, but I haven’t forgotten that nearly 20 years later! There are a million stories I could share; Dave was always one of the most fun and encouraging people you could be around. I’ll miss you brother.
~Junior