Joseph R. Culek, 78 of Kimball, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on November 1, 2025.. Mass of Christian Burial with be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Kimball with Father C.P. Varghese officiating, burial will follow in the Kimball Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home in Wednesday from 1:00 until 6:00 p.m., a Christian Wake Service will be held following the visitation at the funeral home. Friends may also visit www.cantrellfh.com to leave condolences and share stories with the family. Memorials may be given in Joe’s memory to the family for a designation to a charity of their choice. The services for Joe have been entrusted to the Cantrell Funeral Home.
Joseph Roy Culek was born on September 6, 1947, to Joseph and LaVon (Bourlier) Culek and grew up on the family farm south of Kimball, where he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and family.
On June 25, 1968, Joe married his high school sweetheart, Constance Rebein, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and dedication. Together, they raised two sons — Chris, born January 20, 1972, and Bob, born July 4, 1976 — who became the pride and joy of their lives.
Joe began his career working for Wayne Lukassen Farms and later Halliburton. After a brief time in Sterling, he returned home to Kimball, where he established JC Tank Truck Services, which he proudly operated alongside his son Chris for 20+ years. Even after stepping back from daily operations, Joe continued to work in the oil field as a contract pumper and remained responsible for many leases at the time of his passing — a true testament to his strong work ethic and dedication.
A talented athlete, Joe was the Nebraska State Wrestling Champion in 1966, an achievement that sparked a lifelong passion for the sport. He shared that love through years of coaching and mentorship with the Kimball Wrestling Club and the Kimball High School wrestling program. As both a coach and supporter, Joe influenced countless young athletes — teaching them discipline, determination, and love for the sport. His dedication to wrestling helped shape the program and left a lasting legacy in the Kimball wrestling community.
Joe was also a proud and active member of the Kimball Ag Society, where he devoted much of his time and energy to helping grow and support the agricultural community he cared so deeply about. His commitment to the success of local agriculture reflected the same drive and generosity that defined every part of his life.
In later years, Joe’s greatest joy came from his family, especially his grandchildren. Whether sitting in the stands at a game or cheering from the sidelines, Joe was always there — the loudest and proudest supporter. He was truly his grandchildren’s biggest fan and cherished every moment spent with them.
Joe will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his deep love for family, and his lasting contributions to the Kimball community.
Joe is survived by his wife Constance, his sons Chris (Kristy) and Bob (Katie), his beloved grandchildren Kenna (fiancé Tyler Magninie), Mitch, Aubrey, Britton, Cashlyn, and Decker, brothers and sisters Linda McGinnis of Kimball: Charles (Eileen) Culek of Kimball: Jim (Denice) Culek of Kimball; Beth Johnson of Pittsburg KS., and Paul (Judy) Culek, Cheyenne WY as well as many extended family members. The family would also like to recognize and thank his beloved caretaker, Carrie Young Zamora, for her care and companionship. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and LaVon Culek.
Joe will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his strength, humor, and the unwavering love he gave to his family and community. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
