Kurt Anthony Cullum
I was fortunate to get to know Kurt through my work with him the past 6 years. I quickly learned that Kurt had a real passion for his family and enjoying life; and knew better than most how to balance the demands of work and family. I enjoyed working with him and especially getting to know him on a more personal level. Often times this ocurred on the golf course. Kurt was never the longest off the tee but usually you found him right in the middle of the fairway waiting for you to find your ball in the rough or woods. Whenever he talked about his wife and family you could immedaitely see the emence pride and joy in his eyes as spoke of them. I will miss his fellowship and will keep him and his family in my prayers.
Scott Mooney
Burnville
MN
Kurt was a great guy professionally and personally. The few times I had the opportunity/pleasure to golf with him was a joy. Always positive and encouraging. He treated me fairly and with respect when it came to business. He will be greatly missed by his friends, associates, golf buddies, and the people in the foodservice indusry. It was an honor and a privelge knowing this man. My Sympathy & Prayers, Bob Dess Midwest Division Manager Windsor Foods
Bob Dess
Wauwatosa
WI
I did not know Kurt personally but my son Dave Wampach, who is a good friend of his son Jason, always spoke of him highly. He was very supportive of Dave and Jason's fraternity activities at the University of Iowa. He died too young. My mother died of pancreatic cancer so I know how painful it must have been for him and his family. Try to remember the legacy he left you of love and kindness. Betty Wampach
Betty Wampach
Naperville
IL
Was a privilege working with Kurt over the past 7 years. A great man will be missed by all.
Dan McCanna
Andalusia
IL
Although I did not know Kurt very well I do know that he was an amazing father to April who speaks of him with pure admiration. My husband had the pleasure of snowmobiling with him and saying what a fun, polite man with such integrity. He will be missed by everyone who loved him! cindy
Cindy Ripp
Arlington
WI
Cass Miller
Cedar Rapids
IA
In his final weeks, Kurt used to tell me repeatedly that he learned at the end when it was to late that family and friends are the most important aspect to life. And I remember every day he would say that it was a good day because he woke up still taking air and had another day with Cheryl. The only happiness out of this whole situation is that Kurt is no longer in pain, and is at peace in heaven. Kurt you are severly missed.
Cass Miller
Cedar Rapids
IA
We lost an amazing brother, you will forever live in our hearts! We love you Kurtie :) It is nice to know that we have another wonderful guardian angel to watch over us. Every time I feed the birds and squirrels I'll always smile and think of you!
Tim & Vickie Callahan
Cedar Rapids
IA
Kurt was one of the good guys in the foodservice business and was always trying to be better at what he did. I always looked forward to playing golf with Kurt as he traveled around the course at"WARP SPEED 7". I will miss Kurt on the course but will never forget the many times we played golf. My life has been enhanced by knowing and being able to spend time with Kurt over the years. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and may time lessen the pain that you feel currently. God Bless.
Bob Colin
Des Moines
IA
I met Kurt a few years ago when I joined him and some of his Reinhart friends on a trip to golf's mecca in Scotland. His passion for golf and love of life was evident the moment I met him. He will be missed, my prayers go to his family and all his freinds.
Dan Cox
Schaumburg
IL
I first met Kurt in 2003 during negotiations for his company to provide services for our properties in IA and MO. His team had come highly recommended and as I got to know Kurt it was very evident why. The company and its team reflected his integrity and commitment to being the best. Very quickly our business relationship turned to friendship. As we all know Kurt’s passion for the game of golf and Reinhart was only eclipsed by his love for his family. Having the opportunity to know Kurt enriched my life and was truly an honor. Dick Coker St Louis MO.
Dick Coker
St Louis
MO
I will miss my friend. What I wouldn't give to walk/run one more fairway with him or share one more laugh. Words can't say what his friendship meant to me and how it made me a better man,father,and husband. I hope you hit'em straight shankopotamus and smoke a cigar for me.
Jason Smith
Cedar Rapids
IA
My sincere condolences. As a fellow director of the Iowa Restaurant Association I enjoyed working with Kurt. Bill Leichsenring President Ox Yoke Restaurants
Bill Leichsenring
Amana
IA
I'm deeply honored Kurt has been a very important part of my life. From the time I was a child he always treated me with kindness and respect. The love and hospitality he would give to my wife, my children and me will always be treasured in my heart. Kurt, you will always be my role model of a loving husband, father and grandfather. Until we see each other again my prayers will be with my sister your children and their families.
Todd Jones
Rockford
IL
I was very sad to hear of Kurt's passing. I remember working with him when he first took on the leadership role of the RFS-Cedar Rapids division. He was a sharp business guy and a class act. From all of us here at DMA, I want to pass on my condolences to Kurt's family. He will surely be missed but definitely not forgotten.
Bob Sala
Schaumburg
IL
Jason and family - Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Losing a father is painfull, find peace in your shared good times and memories. Know that he is looking down from a better place. Dave and Lisa Bielser
Dave Bielser
Norwalk
IA
I first met Kurt on the golf course about eight years ago. During the course of our conversation we realized we worked for competing companys. I asked him what job he held with Reinhart, and he said something to the effect that he was the head guy out there, but it wasn't that tough of a job because he had such good people around him. Little did I know a few years later I would be working for him. I will miss him .
Kevin Wiseman
Cedar Rapids
IA
To the Cullum family, Although I never worked directly with Kurt I did have the pleasure of meeting Kurt on a few occasions and he was always a gentleman and I am saddened by your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you. God Bless. Dave Banks-RFS Milwaukee
Dave Banks
Racine
WI
"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson reminded us so much of Kurt. What more can a person say about a Wonderful human being?! Kurt touched so many lives in such a positive way. I know that our lives will never be the same without him in it.We will cherish all the memories of Kurt and the great times that we had together. All the Vegas vacations together, spending New Years Eve. together & our fun weekend getaways in Davenport. Those memories will be etched in our hearts forever. We Love you Kurt and we promise that we will always be there for Cheryl! Mike & Lisa
Lisa miller
Rockford
IL
Aunt Cheryl, April, and Jason, my heart goes out to each and every one of you. Uncle Kurt touched our lives in soo many special ways. He was a very amazing man and I will forever hold him in my heart. I will never forget the things he taught me, the golf trip in vegas, and just sitting around with a good cigar, talking about life. I love you all and know that he is looking down on us and smiling, looking out for everyone.
Bryan Miller
Macomb
IL
Cheryl and family, I was so saddened to hear of Kurt's passing. The flood of memories was overwhelming...years of great times, watching kids grow up, picnics, annual meetings, going from sales to Cedar Rapids and on and on. Kurt was such a presence in the "early days" and when he walked into the office, you knew he was there...the laugh, the booming voice, the love of what he did overwhelmed and energized everyone. It was an exciting time and made all the better because he was a part of it. I sure wish I could be there to celebrate Kurt's life with you, we would laugh and cry and raise one to him. My very best to you and your family during this time, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Peg Haldorson
Daytona Beach
FL
Dick Sater
Atlanta
IA
Though Kurt and I had occassional contact over the years, I'd gotten to know him much better over the last couple. I feel as though I am repeating much of what has already been said, but Kurt truly was one of those rare "good guys", not just profesionally but personally as well. I'll miss his golfing pointers, usually through a big cigar, but I am sure he's on his favorite course right now. I am glad I had the privilege of knowing him.
Bill Neider
Oak Creek
WI
I had the honor to call Kurt my freind for more than 15 years. We shared the love of work and golf. I will miss his booming laugh, freindly smile, and the prideful discussions about Cheryl and his family. He will missed, but not forgotten. "God Bless" you man!
Dick and Linda Sater
Atlanta
GA
My condolences to his family and friends. Kurt was always a genuine guy with a kind soul and a twinkle in his eye. I am thankful his suffering has ended. It's not the number of breaths you take that are important but the moments that take your breath away. He will be missed.
Carrie Shanks
Waterloo
IA
My sincere condolences to the Cullum family for your loss. I only had the pleasure of knowing Kurt for two years. I started working with RFS corporate in November of 2007. In my work with the CED division it was very apparent the respect people had for Kurt. It was obvious that he was the leader of the Division but people responded to him as a friend as well. I appreciated his hospitality when I would work in CED he always made time for me. Kurt will be missed by many.
Terry Gordon
sioux falls
SD
Twelve years learning from him, 12 years of golf trips, a lifetime of memories, Will miss the friendship most of all, thanks Kurt.
Rick Day
Cedar Rapids
IA
Stacey Rau-Ferguson
Lisbon
IA
If it wasn't for Kurt we...Korey Ferguson and myself would not be here. He has impacted our lives on a daily basis. We have know Kurt for about 13yrs....I think back about all the times I have walked passed his office and he calls me in to tell me a joke or to talk about the kids or to give me new information to pick on Korey about. Kurt was fabulous with children...when my kids would visit...he gave them food, and or a ball. I remember one time I cooked a meal at the Amana golf course for him and a few others...I brought my 2yr old son with. We waited FOREVER....for them to finish up 54 rounds of GOLF. Kurt came in and gathered his food and sat down with the others...My son had to go to the bathroom...so he dropped his pants and ran passed where they were sitting. Kurt just laughed and shook his head. Very FUNNY:) Then I remember the day a few months ago the week before he found out about his cancer. He and Cheryl returned from a vacation and he told me about how he ran after a GOLF CART and tried to block it with his body. When he was finished telling me the story - I proceed to scold him for going it. He just nodded his head and looked down and told me Cheryl said the same thing. I knew then his stomach pain was serious. Since then we all have been on pins and needles. We know Kurt was a man of dignity and honor. We have respected that. Cheryl you know that we love you and are here for you. It will not be the same....but we will never forget. You are a beautiful woman with a great family and 2 grandchildren. Love them and cherish them forever. GOD BLESS! Ferguson Family
Korey & Stacey Ferguson
Lisbon
IA
Kurt and I where good friends in high school, and his wife Cheryl and I where classmates. Kurt and I had some fun times together, when we where trying to grow up!! I can remember when Kurt asked Cheryl to marry him, he said he was the luckest guy alive. We all knew that was one marriage that was going to last!! Kurt was a great guy and I am sure his memories will last forever in the hearts, of all of his family, and friends, God bless him.
John and Sue Dalsing
Cuba City
WI
To the Cullum family, My thoughts and prayers go out to you. Kurt was one of the main reasons that I went back to work for Reinhart. Kurt was a mentor and a freind. I learned a lot from him in the work world and on the golf course. He will be missed, but definately not forgotten.
Korey Ferguson
Lisbon
IA
Kurt will always be remembered in my mind as a Gentleman with great wisdom and strength who always found a way to let common sense prevail. He will be missed and thought of often.
Thom May
Davenport
IA
Dear Cheryl and Family, Sending our thoughts and prayers to you at this sad time. We have great memories of when we were part of the Reinhart family and how Kurt was a special friend during those years. We will never forget your friendship. Wishing you all peace. Dave and Mary Beth
Dave & Mary Beth Weiland
Dubuque
IA
Kurt was my friend in grade school. Hearing of his death has brought back a flood of memories. We were neighbors as kids and his step-sister, Meredith, was my best friend. He loved to tease us. When I think of Kurt, I think of someone who was adventurous, kindhearted and loved life. My deepest sympathy to his loving family.
Mary Rose (Linden) Goller
New London
WI
Cheryl, Condolences to you, your family, many friends and business associates of Kurts. So many have shared good times with Kurt. What matters most are not the memories of good times but rather those memories that will continue on for so many.Many of these memories have been lessons in living life. Kurt was a good friend and mentor for so many and many will feel a lasting loss. May you find the comfort needed in the days of adjustment.
Ed Couto
Urbandale
IA
Wonderful is a word I'd use to describe Kurt. Any time you'd ask him how he was he'd say wonderful. I think it had to do with the love he had for my sister. He gave me a beautiful neice and an awesome nephew thank-you Kurt... I'm gonna miss seeing you!
sharon wischmeyer
leroy
MI
Cheryl Cullum and family. I mourn the loss of Kurt with you and have provided prayer for him and for you. I haven't seen Kurt in many years but most of my memories of him are many long snowmobile trips all over northern Wisconsin and the UP of Michigan ( he frequently got us lost, although he never believed he was lost). I don't think he was playing too much golf back then, but I may be wrong. I can also remember visiting you both in Maui. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Jim Bush
Rush City
MN
Uncle Kurt was a great man and I know all of us are better for having him in our lives. He was a great inspiration on what someone can accomplish with hard work.
Dan Miller
Camp Stone
AE
AF
I feel tremendously blessed to have had Kurt not only as my uncle, but also as my Godfather. We have such respect, admiration, and love for Kurt that will never be forgotten. Although our hearts are aching and we'll miss spending time with him, we will cherish our memories and be forever thankful that we were fortunate to have shared our lives with such a wonderful man. Cheryl, April & Jason- we will continue to keep you in our prayers that each passing day brings you peace. We love you Kurt! ~Jared & Lisa Gevock
Lisa & Jared Gevock
Dubuque
IA
To all the Cullum family. I remember attending services for a young adult who had passed away. I was like the majority of the congregation in attendance, angry, questioning my faith, and asking 'why did He take this person at such a young age?' The Eulogy consisted of these words that will always leave an imprint in my mind forever. The minister said that there are really only two tragedies in life. 1) To live and not to love 2) To love and never show it. Kurt knew how to live, and he always talked about his wife and family.I am sure you will have fond memories of Kurt's love for you.
Tom Bell
Solon
IA
"This truth came borne with bier and pall, I felt it when I sorrowed most. Tis better to have loved and lost, Than never to have loved at all. But I remained, whose hopes were dim, Whose life, whose thoughts were little worth, To wander on a darkened earth, Where all things round me breathed of him. Whatever ways my days decline, I felt and feel, though left alone, His being working in my own, The footsteps of his life in mine; And so my passion hath not swerved, To works of weakness, but I find, An image comforting the mind, And in my grief a strength reserved." -- Lord Tennyson We will miss you, Uncle Kurt. Maybe peace be with you on your next journey. Sincere condolences to Cheryl, April, and Jason. With best wishes, Andy, Man Wing, and Oliver Timming
Andrew and Man Wing Timming
St. Paul
MN
Sorry for your lost. I enjoyed working with Kurt via Phone calls and emails.
David Swenson
Cashton
WI
Cheryl and family , Thanks for sharing Kurt with us. He always made me feel I was working with him not for him. I will miss him greatly. Kurt made it easy to be his friend.
Dan Messerli
IA
The last time I spoke with Kurt, the first thing he asked me was about how my father was doing. In spite of his own condition, he continued to be concerned about the welfare of others. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work under Kurts Leadership. He was (and will continue to be) an example of what I wish to become. Now he will Golf the most Beautiful Course ever.
Randall Redington
Cedar Rapids
IA
Cheryl and family, please accept our condolences on the loss of your beloved Kurt.
Martina and Norman Ovens
Cedar Rapids
IA
Kurt will be greatly missed, he is one person once you met him you knew you were his friend,and you knew you had a friend you could count on.
Joseph Schmall
plainfield
IA
I got to know Kurt through our family Restaurant in Lancaster WI. Back Then I was just a kid. He became a good friend to our family and was always there to help our family. Some years later and with maybe a little reservation and some convincing from my brother he hired me to work at Reinhart Foods.You never know in your life when it happens, but when you look back certain people walk in to your life and make a profound difference. not only did he influence my direction in life but Kurt is one that influenced me deeply with values and ethics. He gave me the chance when I needed it and helped my to succeed, not just sell, but to live what you do with honesty and integrity. I can only hope to live up to his teachings and I will always remember him for this. Some years later I moved on in my career and to Minnesota and he moved on to Iowa. Yet still Kurt to me is a part of our family and one that we will greatly miss. Kurt say hello to my Dad and Pam as I'm sure they are there to greet you! God Bless!
Brain Burr
Waconia
MN
I am sorry for your loss. Kurt was a joy to be around at work and on the golf course. It was an honor to serve with him as a board of director of the Iowa Restaurant Association. Kurt would light up the room with that smile. He was a great role model for many. He has left some big shoes to fill. John Huntington, Huntington's Restaurant, Iowa Restaurant Association Board of Directors and friend
John Huntington
Marion
IA
Working with Kurt and his colleagues at Reinhart FoodService has long been a privilege. Kurt was an astute and loyal leader, respectful and honest in all of his dealings. I will miss our working relationship and golf outings, but mostly his friendship. We have lost a true gentleman.
Vernon Squires
Cedar Rapids
IA
This is very sad news. My condolences to the family. I got to know Kurt as a customer and became a friend through rounds of golf. I will miss Kurt and his support. It was a pleasure to know him and I will miss his passion for the game of golf we shared. My trips to Cedar Rapids often included a round of golf with Kurt and those trips in the future just will not be the same. I am so glad he was on the trip to Scotland we took together. I will always remember him as played the Old Course in St Andrews together and had a time of our lives. A picture of him and I on the first tee will always be in my office. However, it is good that he is finally at peace and hitting drives on the first tee above.
Kevin Johnston
Mt Prospect
IL
God bless you Kurt- Rest in peace. Our thoughts are with Cheryl, whom he worshipped, and his family. Jim Reinders
Jim Reinders
Omaha
NE
It's difficult to summarize in just a few sentences the wonderful person Kurt was and what he meant to everyone who loved him. He taught us all so many things by the examples he set - things like how to be a thoughtful, loving spouse; how to balance discipline, love and guidance in raising two beautiful children; how to make guests feel like visiting royalty; how to create simply fantastic - or fantastically simple - meals; how to appreciate and enjoy fine wine & cigars; how to set goals - and how to achieve them; and how to indulge a passion for golf, to name just a few. "And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." Kurt packed a lot of life into his years, and we were blessed to be part of it. Cheryl, Arpil & Jason - we share your sorrow, and find this so hard to believe and accept. Although life ends, love never dies - you can be sure Kurt will live on forever in our hearts. We love you -- Steve & Tracy