David "Dave" Emmett Carlson, 65, of Sycamore passed away on August 18th, 2025.

Born January 11, 1960 in Hinsdale, Illinois, he was the beloved son of Emmett C. and Doris Jean (nee. Brewer) Carlson. He was raised in Downers Grove, Illinois on Wallbank Avenue and made many lifelong friends and memories. He attended Downers Grove North, graduating in the Class of 1978, before moving to Iowa City and continuing the family tradition of attending his parents Alma Mater of The University of Iowa. He was a proud Hawkeye, graduating in 1982 from the Tippie College of Business at University of Iowa.

He married Judi Plante August 6th, 1988 in St. Charles, Illinois at Baker Memorial Methodist Church. Moving to St. Charles, they started a family, having their son Donald and later welcoming a daughter, Hannah. He took great pride in his children and in every single one of their accomplishments. They later moved to Sycamore where he resided until his passing.

For nearly 40 years, Dave worked at Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Dave began working at CBOE in August of 1986 until his department of regulations transitioned to FINRA in 2015. He was highly regarded by his peers for his knowledge in the industry, even having served on a committee writing questions for Series 7 brokerage exams.

Dave found joy in all things sports. Growing up, he developed a love for the game of golf playing at Downers Grove Golf Club. He would play there for many years, participating in many events including their men's league. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bears, and Chicago Bulls, as well as occasionally attending NIU Huskies tailgating parties. Dave was also a voracious reader, with history being one of his favorites. A lover of cinema and television, he created many fond memories with his children, as well as quoting countless works. He loved music of all genres and enjoyed making playlists to share with others. Growing up playing guitar, he would eventually rekindle his love for playing the instrument. Dave enjoyed the outdoors, especially hiking with his family. He would instill a love for all of these things in his children.

Dave is survived by his wife: Judi; his two children: Donald and Hannah; his siblings: Susan Carlson (David Stahr) and Sandi (Jerry DeHart); as well as his mother-in-law, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, his father-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, as well as his many aunts and uncles.

Dave's legacy will live on through all of the people's lives he has touched and impacted.

Family, friends, and co-workers are welcomed to join together for a Celebration of Life on Friday, September 26th from 2:00 pm-8:00 pm at Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave, Sycamore, IL. There will be time allotted at 6:30pm to share memories for those who wish to do so.

To sign the online guest book or write a special memory- go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com