Laura Cullinan Obituary, Cause of Death – Peoria Community Mourns a Beloved Wife, Mother, and Accomplished Attorney

Laura Elizabeth Schachtrup Cullinan, born September 1, 1976, passed away on October 24, 2026, leaving behind a loving family, dear friends, and a lasting legacy of kindness, intelligence, and generosity. She was remembered as a woman who had an extraordinary gift for making the world around her more beautiful through her thoughtfulness, creativity, and devotion to the people she loved.

Whether creating a welcoming home, planning celebrations with care, tending beautiful flowers, or finding meaningful ways to support others, Laura approached life with intention and grace. Her family and friends will remember the warmth she brought into their lives and the many ways she made people feel understood, valued, and loved.

Remembering Laura Elizabeth Schachtrup Cullinan

Born in Peoria, Illinois, on September 1, 1976, Laura was the daughter of Linda Elaine and Francis Michael Schachtrup. From childhood, she shared a close bond with her parents, particularly her father, with whom she enjoyed golfing, boating, and going on drives while talking about life.

As the older sister to Mike Schachtrup, Laura grew up surrounded by family and developed a deep appreciation for love, connection, and togetherness. These values later became central to the family she built with her husband and children.

Those who knew Laura remembered her as a classic beauty with a brilliant mind and a generous heart. She had a rare ability to understand people and make them feel genuinely cared for. Her warmth and intuition left a meaningful impression on those fortunate enough to know her.

Education and Accomplished Legal Career

Laura attended St. Mary's of Kickapoo, Father Sweeney Grade School, and Peoria Notre Dame High School. She continued her education at the University of Notre Dame, where she graduated with high honors and developed a lifelong affection for the Fighting Irish.

Her academic promise attracted the attention of Rev. Theodore Hesburgh, who personally recommended her for admission to Loyola University Chicago School of Law. He affectionately referred to her as "my golden girl," a distinction her father remembered with great pride.

Laura went on to earn her law degree and establish a distinguished legal career. She began professionally at Sidley Austin LLP in Chicago before later working at RLI Corp. in Peoria.

Her professional accomplishments reflected her intelligence, curiosity, humility, and commitment to lifelong learning. She carried those qualities into every part of her life.

Love, Marriage, and Family

Chicago was not only where Laura began her professional journey but also where one of the greatest love stories of her life began.

She is survived by her loving husband, Allen Duane Cullinan, and their three beloved children: Duane Douglas Evans Cullinan, Mary Michael Cullinan, and Frances Elaine Cullinan.

Her surviving family also includes her father, Francis Michael Schachtrup, and his wife, Jan; her brother, Mike Schachtrup; and her stepsiblings, Amanda (Joe) Matthews, Matthew Wright, and Jonathan (Mae) Wright.

Laura also leaves behind a large and loving extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Linda Elaine Schachtrup, and her infant brother, Francis Matthew, who was stillborn.

Laura Cullinan Cause of Death

The obituary information provided confirms that Laura Elizabeth Schachtrup Cullinan passed away on October 24, 2026. However, it does not disclose a specific cause of death or describe the circumstances surrounding her passing.

No particular illness, medical condition, or other circumstance should be assumed without confirmation from her family or an authorised source.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Family, friends, and community members were invited to gather to celebrate Laura's life and honor her memory in Peoria Heights, Illinois.

The visitation was scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Peoria Heights.

A funeral Mass was scheduled for Friday, October 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Church. Private graveside services were to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorial contributions to:

The Gilmore Foundation Restricted Fund in Memory of Laura Schachtrup Cullinan

DVI Foundation Services
5823 N Forest Park Drive
Peoria, IL 61614

These memorial contributions provide an opportunity for those wishing to honor Laura's memory and support a cause chosen by her family.

A Lasting Legacy of Love and Beauty

Laura Elizabeth Schachtrup Cullinan will be remembered for much more than her academic achievements and successful legal career. She was a devoted wife and mother, a loving daughter and sister, and a friend whose kindness and generosity touched the lives of many.

Her ability to make ordinary moments special, create beautiful spaces, and make others feel deeply valued was an important part of who she was. The love she shared with her husband, children, family, and friends will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Heartfelt condolences go to Allen, their three children, her father, brother, extended family, and everyone mourning her loss. May they find comfort in the memories they shared and in the lasting beauty Laura brought into their lives.

Information Disclaimer: This obituary is based on the family information supplied. Laura's biographical details, education, professional background, surviving relatives, and funeral arrangements are presented as provided. Her specific cause of death was not disclosed, and no medical or other circumstances have been assumed.