Michael Scultore Obituary

Scultore, Michael Eugene

Michael Eugene Scultore-Mike to his friends, simply Papa to his family, passed away on November 7, 2025, in Matteson, Illinois, at the age of 88.

Born in Chicago on March 12, 1937, Mike was the son of Vito and Gertrude Scultore. He grew up surrounded by the strength of family and the value of hard work - virtues that shaped the man he would become.

Mike was reunited in Heaven with his parents; siblings Louis, Clemintine, and Marie; and his beloved daughter, Pamela Scultore Dykstra, and great-grandson Blake Carlson.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 56 years, Joyce Elaine Scultore; his daughter Debra Scultore Arbucias (Anthony); and grandchildren Jenifer Carlson (Chad), Michael Henke (Christin), Kelly Slater (George), Cody Mazurek, Kyle Mazurek (Cassady), and Alexis Arbucias. His legacy continues through great-grandchildren Brody, Bryce, Charlie, Jaimes and Jack, as well as his cherished niece Luanne Scultore and nephew Rocky Lotesto, to whom he was especially close.

For all who knew him, Mike was a man of quiet strength and unshakable devotion. A proud husband, father, and grandfather, his world revolved around his family - and they around him. His love for Joyce was legendary, the kind of partnership that taught everyone nearby what commitment truly looked like.

A proud member of Teamsters Local #705, Mike embodied the values of loyalty, hard work, and integrity that defined a generation.

In the 1960s, Mike opened a small restaurant across from Bowen High School in Chicago - a place where good food was served with a side of wisdom. Many of the young people he guided in those days remained in touch for decades, drawn back time and again by his kindness, humor, and example.

Outside of work, Mike's passions reflected the joy he found in life - classic cars, great music, and dancing with Joyce were his simple pleasures. To his friends, he was generous and genuine, quick to laugh and even quicker to lend a hand. His friendships were deep and loyal; his handshake meant something. He was easygoing yet carried a quiet authority - the kind of man who didn't need to say much to command respect.

To his grandchildren, Papa was larger than life - the heart of every gathering. Laughter came easily when he was near, drawn by the warmth in his eyes and that unmistakable smile that could light up a room. He was also their favorite playmate, storyteller, and co-conspirator in countless games of dice, cards, and spoons, where "winner takes all" was always said with a grin.

Though strong as they come, Mike's greatest power was his gentleness - and that giant heart. He lived with integrity that didn't need announcement, generosity without expectation, and humor that reminded everyone how good it was simply to be together. He was the kind of man others looked to - for guidance, for protection, and for a sense of what it meant to stand firm in one's values.

He lived guided by faith, family, and a steadfast sense of right and wrong - a compass that never wavered.

Mike's life will be remembered and celebrated not through formal services, but through the stories, memories, and private moments shared among family and friends - exactly as he wanted.

A Toast:

"To Mike - a man of laughter, labor, and love. May his story remind us to stand tall, love hard, and dance often. May your drink be smooth, the memories steady, and the family strong."

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