Obituary: David William Halkyard

Obituary published and funeral arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​

David William Halkyard, age 46, of Morris, IL, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Edward Hospital in Naperville following a brief, yet courageous battle with a rare form of cancer.

David was born on September 11, 1980. He is survived by his parents, Dr. Douglas and Jeannine Halkyard; his brother, Dr. Scott Halkyard; his sister, Shellie Halkyard; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John and Maxine Duke and his paternal grandparents, Russell and Tillie Halkyard.

David was a kindhearted, caring young man who always put the needs and concerns of others before his own. His deep love for his family, compassion for others, cheerful personality, and quick wit brought immeasurable joy to those who knew and loved him. He was truly the sunshine in our lives, and his absence leaves an indescribable void in our hearts.

Vacations to Charlevoix, Michigan (his happy place), brought him so much enjoyment. Hiking, walking along the beach, fishing, and enjoying ice cream by the harbor, were among his favorite pastimes. There was a special bench by the harbor bearing the inscription, “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” Those words now hold an even deeper meaning. David, you gave us so many happy memories that we will treasure forever. Our hearts are heavy without you, but our lives will always be brighter because of you.

David was a dedicated and hardworking individual who was well-liked by his co-workers. He always had a smile on his face and showed genuine compassion and kindness toward others. He was also a creative and talented aquarium hobbyist who lovingly maintained several marine and saltwater fish tanks, reflecting his patience, curiosity, and appreciation for the beauty of the world around him.

David attended Saratoga Grade School and was a graduate of Minooka Community High School. He continued his education at North Central College in Naperville, IL where he received his degree in Business and Broadcast Communications.

David will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, wonderful sense of humor, and the happiness he brought to everyone around him. Though his time with us was far too short, the love he shared and the memories he leaves behind will remain in our hearts forever.

Services for David Halkyard will be held privately with interment at Saratoga Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made in memory of David Halkyard supporting the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. Donations can be made by phone, online or by mail:

Phone: Please call 1-855-852-8129 to talk with a team member who can facilitate a secure gift transfer over the telephone.

Online: Please visit give.mayoclinic.org/designate and complete the online form. Select “Dedicate my donation in honor or in memory of someone”, select “In memory” and enter David Halkyard. Select “Other” for what would you like your donation to support and enter “Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center”.

Mail: Checks can be written directly to Mayo Clinic and sent to 200 First Street SW Rochester, MN 55905. In the memo, please write “In memory of David Halkyard”.

Or Sarcoma Foundation of America would be appreciated.

For more information please call (815) 942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute at fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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