David H. Luigs

David H. Luigs passed away at his home in Hammond, Indiana, on September 23, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born in Roseland, Illinois, on March 6, 1956, Dave was the son of the late Dallas "Leo" Luigs and Cecelia Molo (Dmochowski). Growing up in Roseland, he held fond memories of playing baseball with neighborhood friends—a sport that would become a lifelong passion.

Dave’s love for sports ran deep. He was an avid golfer who cherished any opportunity to be out on the course, and an exceptional baseball and softball coach for his children, making a lasting impact on their lives and the lives of many young athletes. A die-hard fan through and through, he loyally cheered for the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks, and New York Yankees. Among his favorite memories were attending Game 2 of the 2005 World Series with his children to watch the White Sox win, and traveling across the country with his son to visit various MLB stadiums. His dedication as a fan extended to high school and college sports as well; when his son, Daryl, wrestled, Dave attended every single meet, enthusiastically cheering on Daryl and the entire team.

Dave began his career in the corporate world at SEI in downtown Chicago, but ultimately found his true calling in the culinary world, spending decades sharing his talent as a chef. Over the years, he cooked at local favorites including Ciao, Gatto’s, and Idlewild Country Club, where he finished out his career. Among friends and family, Dave was famous for his signature homemade green salsa and giardiniera, which he generously shared with those he loved.

Music was another essential part of Dave’s soul. A self-proclaimed Deadhead and passionate lover of classic rock, he attended as many concerts as he could throughout his life. His passion for music was so central to who he was that he named his daughter, Jessica, after the iconic Allman Brothers song.

Above all, Dave was devoted to his family. He was a proud father to his two children, Daryl Luigs and Jessica (Bob) Stefanski, whom he raised with his former wife, Elizabeth Luigs. He was also a loving, wonderfully goofy "Papa" to his three grandchildren: Robert, Emma, and Jack. Whether cracking jokes, making silly faces, or simply being there for them, Dave’s greatest joy was bringing laughter to his grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas "Leo" Luigs and Cecelia Molo (Dmochowski), and his brother, Dallas Luigs. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, as well as a loving network of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of lifelong friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Dave on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Balagio Restaurant in Homewood, IL. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor Dave's life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to a local animal shelter or senior cat rescue, honoring his lifelong love for rescuing animals and giving older cats a loving home. For further information, please contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.