Robert J. Kukla

Wednesday November 4, 2020, long time Park Ridge resident and retired Administrative Law Judge, Robert John Kukla left this world and joined the love of his life, his beloved wife, Barbara. Robert was born December 1, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois, son to John and Antoinette Marie.  Robert was accepted into Northwestern University and graduated Juris Doctor in 1957. Robert held many positions with different companies throughout his life time; he was a Casualty Adjuster at Allstate Insurance Company 1957, trial attorney firm Fitzgerald, Petrucelli & Simon 1957-1961, Director of Marketing, Sales and Distribution at Sears, Roebuck and Company 1962-1970. Self-employed author, writer, lecture, consultant, television and radio personality, 1970 to 1972. Author of the book, "Gun Control, a written record of efforts to eliminate the private possession of firearms in America", still considered the foremost authority on the subject. Robert was President of the "Logan Square Neighborhood Association" which he helped found, an organization formed to wage the war on crime in the area. Robert was a Hearings Attorney supervisor for the State of Illinois, 1970 to 1976. Executive Director, Institute Legislation Action, National Rifle Association, Washington, 1976 to 1978. Board of Directors, member Executive Committee, Chairman Legislation and bylaws committees, Institute Legislation Action, National Rifle Association. Legislation consulting for Citizens Committee for Right To Keep and Bear Arms, since 1978, Board of Directors since 1982. Adviser to the Second Amendment Foundation, since 1978. Chairman legislation committee Illinois Rifle Association, 1958 to 1970. Robert decided to share his knowledge of the law as an Instructor of law at Triton College, 1980 to 1983, Oakton College, 1981 to 1989, Roosevelt University 1985, professor of Law since 1988. President of K&S Association's Ltd. Partner of Quality House Sales Inc. Robert has been listed as a noteworthy professional Society Administrator Educator by Marquis, Who's Who in America for many years. Robert was an expert marksman and world of renowned pistol target shooter, his love of American firearms and the Second Amendment is what guided most his life; he was a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment and a hero of the NRA. Robert received a certificate of merit, City of Chicago 1970 for his demonstration of good citizenship in action, "He did care and without fault of potential physical injury, he went to the assistance of a victim of assault and robbery." The certificate was presented to him by Chicago Mayor, Richard J Daley. Despite his many professional accomplishments throughout his lifetime none compared to the birth of his two sons, Robert Anthony and Jahn Jay Robert, his pride and joy. Most evenings throughout the years you would find Robert engaged in activities with his boys such as YMCA's Indian Guides YMCA Indian Guides which provided structured opportunities for fellowship, camping, and community-building activities. He was an avid woodworker and Craftsman, from creating toy swords, bow and arrows, furniture and holiday decorations often displayed in the front yard for all to enjoy during the holidays. In later years Robert was perhaps best known for walks throughout the neighborhood with his beloved yorkshire terrier Poochy, who was often referred to as the Little Gentleman. Robert is survived by his sons Robert and Jay, daughter-in-law Dana (wife to Jay), his two grandson's Kameron Robert and Kody Dennis. Throughout his life Robert strove to instill in others what his parents had instilled in him: the twin bulwarks of progressive civilization, individual freedom combined with individual responsibility along with the optimistic conviction that the truth shall keep America free. Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. with a service at 12:00 p.m. at Cooney Funeral Home located at 625 Busse Hwy. in Park Ridge. For information please call 847-685-1002 or visit www.cooneyfuneralhome.com 

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