Russell James Kukla

Russell “Russ” Kukla, 65, of Hoffman Estates, passed away on September 28, 2026.
Born on February 5, 1961 in Chicago to Doris and Daniel Kukla, Russ was the youngest of four children. Growing up, he played many sports including basketball, softball, track, football, varsity baseball, and golf – making lifelong friends along the way. He graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1979 before attending Northern Illinois University, earning a degree in finance. He was a dedicated employee of 40+ years at Midwest Commercial Painting (previously Campus Corps) where he always made everyone feel affirmed, equal, and most importantly, heard.
A Chicago sports lover, he was a Chicago Blackhawks season ticket holder for many years. There, in 1983, he met Marilyn. It took some convincing to get her number, but a note delivered by a mutual acquaintance on a piece of cardboard sealed the deal. After years of dating, they were married on October 8, 1988.

His marriage to Marilyn, his Jella, would last 38 years during which they lived out every word of their vows, proving that love is the steadfast decision to walk beside each other through every joy, sorrow, triumph, and trial that life provides.

Together, they welcomed three children: Shelby, Christopher, and Trevor. He was an active and involved dad, and they were his pride and joy. He taught them to have confidence in any undertaking, kindness and respect for the diversity of humanity, and that the greatest musical artist of all time is Bruce Springsteen.

In addition to his kids, Russ has two grandchildren, whom he treasured. He was so very proud to be christened as the one and only Panta by Jonas and Margot.

In his recent years, he has had the opportunity to travel both around the United States– hiking national parks from Mount Rainier to the Smoky Mountains–and abroad, tossing coins and making wishes in the Trevi Fountain with his wife. He had more time to play (and win!) numerous rounds of golf with his friends (he was on the golf team), who were just as important to him as his family.
Russ is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; his children, Shelby (Louis) Rosche, Christopher (Kristina), and Trevor; his grandchildren, Jonas and Margot; his siblings, Carol Beck, Judith (Tom) McGough, and Daniel Kukla; and many treasured nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Doris Kukla.

Russ will forever be remembered by many as a hard worker, a humble family man, a loyal friend, and Bruce Springsteen’s #1 fan with the most contagious laugh.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Russ’s name to PanCAN, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or, in the spirit of Springsteen, please donate to your local food pantry so that something good may come from this tragedy.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026 from 4-8 PM at Countryside Funeral
Home, 1640 Greenmeadows Blvd., Streamwood, IL 60107 from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM. A prayer service will be at 5:00 PM.