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BORN
1940
DIED
2012
FUNERAL HOME
ROBERT BUKOWSKY Obituary
Bob was born July 29, 1940, in Fredericktown, Mo., to Charlotte (nee Dunn) and Charles Bukowsky.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts from University of Missouri, played in the Orange Bowl, joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and earned a master's degree from Southern Methodist University in Texas.
Bob was vice president of sales for Ideal Industries for the last 20-plus years of his professional life. Bob was a world-class salesperson. He had his greatest success selling life. Everyone Bob knew – family, friends, business associates, acquaintances – bought from him. No complaints. No returns.
Bob was active in charitable organizations. Most recently, he served as a board member of the Kishwaukee Family YMCA and was a fundraiser for the Strong Kids Campaign.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and beloved son, Brett.
Bob is survived by his wife, Franca; son, Michael (Rebecca); grandchildren, Caden and Carter; sister, Elizabeth; brother, Michael; Franca's daughter, Jessica Davis; Brett and Mike's mother, Sandra Bukowsky; and many other family and friends who will proudly carry Bob's spirit from infinity to infinity.
Family and friends will gather from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Butala Funeral Home and Crematory in Sycamore. A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Bob would much prefer contributions to the Kishwaukee Family YMCA Strong Kids Campaign in care of Butala Funeral Home and Crematory, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.
To sign the online guest book, visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com or for more information, call 815-895-2833.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for ROBERT BUKOWSKY
Kerri Williams
April 11, 2022
Gosh I miss Bob. I talk about him often and mention what a class act he was. He cared so much for the sales people at IDEAL. He was a pleasure to work for and made it fun! I can't believe it has been ten years. We Love you Bob!
Steve Helle -- President Granite City Electric Supply
April 11, 2022
He was a gem... Hard to believe its been so long since he left this world. People who worked for him --- did for decades. People who bought from him --- did for decades. I can honestly say I never heard anything say anything terms of admiration for Bob.
Jack Floyd
April 12, 2020
Bob was on my NMG advisory board with NEMRA. While my ag
ency never represented his mfg. He was a mentor and guide. He set the standard of ethics in the electrical industry & I miss him.
April 11, 2019
Hard to believe it's been 7 years since Bob left us. Great guy! God Bless Franca..
Gary Patrick
April 11, 2019
Miss a Great Friend
May 29, 2012
To the Bukowsky Family --
I have been a customer of Bob's for 25 years. Bob was one of the fairest, most honest, and hardest working individuals I've ever met. I'll bet Bob and I met at a mimumum of 50 Imark meetings over the years and I have a clear memory of Mr. + Mrs Bukowsky dancing during an Imark annual meeting. My wife and I were in awe at the beauty of the two of you on that dance floor. Our industry will miss Bob.
Steve Helle - Pres. Granite City Electric Supply - Quincy, Ma
May 17, 2012
Franca, Thank you for sharing Bob with us. He was a joy, as are you. Dr Burstein, Shirley and crew.
shelly marcus
April 30, 2012
Franc....my thoughts and love are with you!
Bob Calhoun
April 29, 2012
Franca, so sorry to hear about Bob. He was truely a gentleman, a professional as well as a great guy. We are all better off to have had Bob in our lives.
Nancy and I wiah you the best.
Bob MacArthur
April 27, 2012
Franca, we were so sorry to hear the news of Bob's passing. We often would talk about the good times we had at industry events with you and Bob. He was truly respected both as a colleague and loved as a friend. Please accept our condolences. Bob MacArthur & Trish Wurth
Ken Ritacco
April 24, 2012
Franca , I am very sorry to hear about Bob's passing. I always enjoyed his company and have learned a lot from him in the time we worked together.He was better at building long term relationships with people than anyone I have ever known. Please accept our sincere condolences. Ken & Sue Ritacco
Tom Isenberg
April 24, 2012
Bukowsky Family,
I was so sorry to read about Bob's passing. One of the best features of the electrical industry is the close relationships we all make. I consider the one I had with Bob one of my favorites. His enthusiasm was infectious. He was a loyal supporter of Ideal, but as a customer, I always felt he was fair. Best wishes to you all during this difficult time.
Tom Isenberg, Western Extralite
Jim Huekels
April 24, 2012
Franca- Sorry to hear that Bob has passed. I enjoyed working with him and I have learned a lot from him personally and professionally. Much of what he taught me has had significant impact on my career. I enjoyed the time we spent together on the top 10 trips and the memories are priceless. take care and God Bless.
Jerry Duran
April 23, 2012
Franca, our deepest condolences to you and your family. I am sad to hear of Bob's passing. Bob was one of a kind, he will be missed. A connoisseur and teacher of life. Buko, “my shoes are shined and my socks match”. A cold beverage, sunshine, sand between our toes and a beautiful view. “Why rush. Let's enjoy this, don't you know that it's freezing with snow on the ground in Sycamore”. Que Dios te tenga en su gloria, mi amigo.
Melissa DeGraeve
April 23, 2012
Mike and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I'm representing the Moore family. Some of my best memories are of the summers I spent with my Uncle Bob, Aunt Sue, and cousins, Brett and Mike. Remember Door County? Your Dad was the evening entertainment at the nightly bonfires! Because of your Dad, I got to see Texas, Mexico, New Jersey, New York, Wisconsin, Canada, Michigan, and Chicago. Please accept my family's condolences.
Ann Brownell
April 22, 2012
Franca - Thank you for bringing Bob into our lives. I know he is still here because he is in our hearts. He was and continues to be an inspiration.
Bob - your presence filled such a big space. Your absence leaves a huge void. Your presence was so comforting. Your absence is so painful. Your presence taught us so much. We are trying to believe that your absence will teach us more. During your life, you built bridges. In your death, we'll continue to cross them.
Terry Stevens
April 22, 2012
Franca, Bob was one of a kind - he will be missed by all. I didn't know Bob for very long but immediately gravitated to his warmth and energy. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Bill & Laura Greenwood
April 22, 2012
When I first met Bob I was afraid of him. I was new, and we started working at IDEAL within several months of each other. Over the next 20 years he became my best friend, mentor, and someone to whom I could trust and confide in anytime I needed it. He was one of the greatest people I have ever met in my life. He taught me more than any single person could have, aside from my own father. He will truly be missed and I will never forget him. Bill
I enjoyed being with Bob and Franca so much on our Top 10 Trips. Bob had the greatest sense of humor and kept me laughing all the time. I loved the silk shirts and Italian shoes even on the beach. No couple was more fun to be around and truly embraced the spirit of teamwork in a salesforce. He WAS IDEAL INDUSTRIES.
We will miss him more than you could ever know.
Love, Bill and Laura Greenwood
Barry Hana
April 21, 2012
Franca and family, we are so sad to learn of Bob's passing. He certainly instilled a great love for life in everyone he met. Bob was a fraternity brother, M.U. football player, leader among all our members. In school, he was fun, and an admirable role model. Over time he became a friend we never wanted to lose. We won't. He's locked in our hearts and memories forever. Love, Barry & Bonnie Hana
Elena Engel
April 20, 2012
A wonderful Uncle, with a huge and loving smile always planted on his face, a great sense of humor to always entertain those around him, a warm heart always loving everyone,hands.. reaching out to many, a wonderful and caring wife with whom Bob shared many great moments. Bob created many memories with us, happy, sad, funny, exciting, wonderful memories. He marked a scar in all of our lives, forever imprinted in our hearts.We can always touch that scar and remember his laugh, his smile, his sense of humor, his everything. We can remember how wonderful he was to all of us, he still is, and forever will be. Bob, we love you. You will ALWAYS be with us.. In our hearts,throughout the day, every minute in every way, you will be here. <3 -Your neice, Elena Engel
Larry Welch
April 20, 2012
Franca,
Bob was an absolute gem to be around and to work for. He never took himself to seriously, and never wanted anyone around him to do that either. I've never met anyone, ever, who was better at living life then Bob. For all who read this, remember to do two things in honor of Bob; Wear great shoes & Order something that's not on the menu! Sincere condolences.
Margarita Gómez-Mingorance
April 20, 2012
Bob, You lived your life elegantly. May you continue doing so wherever you are. We are missing you.
Debbie Madeley
April 20, 2012
Bob shared his talents, passion for life and knowledge freely. When I started at the Y, Bob was first person on our Board to take me under his wing and coach me in the ropes of fundraising. I will always be grateful for that support. For our YMCA, Bob's caring, philantrhopic spirit and commitment to helping others succeed will never be forgotten. Franca and family, please accept our most sincere condolences on your loss. Bob was a treasure to our community.
John Harrison
April 20, 2012
"Buk" was one of my best friends when we met in Dallas, TX in 1965 and have kept in touch over the years, as best friends do. We did some wild & crazy things in our youth but bonded as the best of friends. "We tiped the scale at 33, the kid and me, and when we'd spar twas give and take, why, I would't slug for any stake". I thank God for my friend Bob. Franca, keeping you and your family in our prayers that the Holy Spirit will be with you and comfort the whole family in your loss. John & Florence Harrison
April 19, 2012
Franca, Michael and family, our deepest sympathies for your loss. Bob's fraternity brothers from Mizzou are grieving also. As a leader, he was revered and admired by all. Bob always had a deal going, running the after-hours deli, periodic social events worthy of "Animal House" and fun pledge training. Through all that, his concern and care for his "K-Sig brothers" was obvious to all. His sense of humor and jokes made our college years more lively -- and that spirit lasted well into the alumni years. Through life's trials, his great love for others shined even brighter. We will miss him greatly. A.E.K.D.B.
Maria Engel
April 19, 2012
Uncle Bob is such an inspiration to me because he was a great man! He was always in a good/happy mood and always willing to entertain us. He was always a lot of fun and we always enjoyed being around him. He is now forever with us no matter where we are! I am so happy that he was a part of my life! He was a great man and someone to be proud of. <3
Jack Floyd
April 19, 2012
Franca and family I am saddened by the loss of this great man. He had the most positive attitude on life and our electrical business.
Mike Marisco
April 19, 2012
The Bukowsky Family, Bob was a great man and an inspiration to be around. He was by far the best salesman that Ideal ever had. If Bob couldn't get you motivated to move Ideal, no one could! He will be missed by all of us that had the fortune of knowing such a wonderful man.
Gabriel Brownell
April 19, 2012
Franca you have my condolences for your loss as well as everyone else's.
Bob Pignatelli Audrey Cohn
April 19, 2012
Never met a person with such a passion for life. He put his all into his work, his friends, and his family, often putting others interests before his. We will miss this great person and friend.
Terry Hardy
April 19, 2012
Bob was a great leader, mentor, and a true friend. He was an ispiration to all of us in Field Sales, and he will be greatly missed.
Amy Brownell
April 18, 2012
When I think of Bob I think of: class, yummy food, sly sense of humor, even-keeled, honorable, loyal, loving, fun, wise and handsome. I said it before but it bears repeating that he was a GEM. A blessing. A light. May his beautiful memory shine forever.
Kelly McLaughlin
April 18, 2012
UB!!! Thank you for loving my beautiful aunt as much as you did, and thank you for making her so happy for so long. We will love and miss you but I am at peace knowing that you don't have to suffer anymore. Aunt Franca, we're keeping you in our prayers.. Love you so much!
April 18, 2012
Franca:
Bob was one of my best friends at the Kappa Sigma house and I loved him like a brother. I know he is in a better place and we want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Marlene and Dan Reilly
Eugene Brownell
April 18, 2012
Bob - thanks for taking such good care of my sister all these years. The love you shared, that I witnessed last week, was awe inspiring. Pure, unconditional love.
Barb Crow
April 18, 2012
Franca, I'm so sorry for your loss - you know how much I love you and Bob. You were my "rocks" for awhile - now let me be your "rock" for as long as you need me. I'll miss Bob and his wonderful outlooks on love and life, he was a special person, and will be truly missed. Mike and Bob are now enjoying their "single malt scotches and cigars" as they cook an incredible meal for their heavenly family. I will be there for you for as long as you need me..........
Love, Barb
Nelson Blanchard
April 18, 2012
I've never met a better man. It was a joy working at Ideal, for Bob. Bob was a wonderful mentor and the epitome of all we wished to be as sales people and as human beings. Bob will be deeply missed by all he touched with his kindness and wisdom. Brenda and I send our prayers out to the family and all of the Ideal family.
Maria McLaughlin
April 18, 2012
UB,
Thank you for being a wonderful husband to my sister. You made her so happy!!! You were a wonderful man, and an awesome cook! You will be missed by everyone you have ever touched!
Love, Maria (Marion)
Monique Whitcomb
April 18, 2012
Bob know we will always remember and love you.From Doris's Last Chance ( Our first meeting) you introduced us to jalapeno poppers.And created some fabulous other meals for us.We celebrated the end of the world..New years eve 1999..and still lived to talk about it the next morning.You loved my sister so much, that pleases me the most.I pray your soul now lives in glory. Till me meet again Bob
Keith Oeltjenbruns
April 18, 2012
Dear Franca and family,
Julie and I send our deepest condolences. We were sadden to hear of Bob's passing and he will be missed greatly. I looked up to Bob for all those years that I worked for him at IDEAL. He had a way of making a person always wanting to do their best and to be a better person. Julie and I will never forget those Top 10 trips that we were fortunate to take with you and Bob. Our prayers go out to you and your family.
Cheryl Taube
April 18, 2012
Franca - Sorry I could not be there with you but you are in my thoughts and prayers. Paul will take good care of Bob. Cheryl Taube
Dave & Karen Miller
April 18, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Franca and the Bukowsky family. Our lives are all the better for having met and worked with such a positive, uplifting and giving spirit. My fondest "fatherly" instruction from Bob while sharing a glass of wine at the Sycamore Speedway (his finger in my chest for emphasis): "Invest some precious time to savor your God given gift of life - buy that ticket to Paris, do it now before its too late". So Karen and I recently toasted to you at the Champs Elysees. God Bless you, Bob! We love you. You are deeply missed.
Kerri and Mark Williams
April 18, 2012
Dear Franca and family, and our IDEAL friends,
We are deeply saddened to learn of Bob's death last weekend and pray you all will find some comfort during this very difficult time.
It was an honor and blessing to have known Bob. Thanks to Kerri, I had the pleasure of spending a good deal of time with Bob in many beautiful settings. Bob's hospitality, kindness, and sincere concern for me personally and professionally are a testament to his character and standing. I held Bob in very high regard both as a friend and leader. He was respected and he will be missed greatly. Mark
Bob was a class act!; brilliant, charismatic, a very sharp dresser (especially his shoes!!!), and the best sales person I have ever known. His love for Franca was obvious and never in question. What a great example! I remember interviewing with Bob twenty-one years ago, the first day we met, as if it was yesterday. He was a mentor and friend who truly cared for his team. I will miss him so. Kerri
Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you all.
Brian Thomas
April 18, 2012
Bob was a blessing and a friend. I learned many life lessons working with him. He had a gift of making us all want to be better people and he was a true gentleman. There are many memories and stories I will carry with me through my life. I'm a better man for knowing him. Please accept my condolences. -Very Truly Yours
Warren Jenkins
April 18, 2012
Great loss for us all. A truly inspirational person who had such an impact on our lives. He will be missed and we send our deepest sympathies to the family.
Bill Frisella (METRO ELECTRIC SUPPLY)
April 18, 2012
Franca, Family and all who loved Bob (and that was many),
A gem of a human being has been lost to all of us here on earth but a new light now shines on the other side. His vibrancy and sparkle will be greatly missed.
Ken Nelson
April 17, 2012
Franca, Thank you for sharing Bob with us. He gave so much as a life guide, mentor and friend. He'll be remembered always by those who he touched.
Mike Jensen
April 17, 2012
Franca and family, Deepest condolences on your loss which is felt around the country. Bob inspired everyone he met to embrace life and will be missed by all who knew him.
Gary Ottaviano
April 17, 2012
Franca - Please accept our family's deepest synpathy for your loss. Bob was a remarkable individual and I learned a lot from him. It was a pleasure and privielge to work with him for almost eleven years and I valued his advice and professional insights over the years. Our prayers are with you and all members of Bob's extended family. His presence will be missed.
Randy Thompson
April 17, 2012
Franca and Family, Our sincere condolences to you and your family. I enjoyed working with Bob for the past 20 years and will miss him. You are all in our prayers, God Bless you
Andy, Theresa, Abby & Matthew Rice
April 17, 2012
Dear Bukowsky Cousins, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Bob was such a special person, and we will always carry him in our hearts. May God bless Bob's soul and welcome him home. Much love to all of you.
Sean Leahy
April 17, 2012
Franca, Michael, and family. My deepest condolences to all. Bob was one of the special ones. He will be missed.
Allen Kalkomey
April 17, 2012
Franca & Family - Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I worked with Bob at Ideal for 5 years, and really enjoyed our time together. I viewed him as a mentor, and always enjoyed talking to him about both buisness and life in general. I have tremendous respect and admiration for Bob. I feel very forutante for getting to know him. Stephanie (my wife) and I both got to know Bob, and will miss him greatly. We will continue to pray for you and the family. God Bless!
Tom Fisher
April 17, 2012
Franca, our prayers and thoughts are with you. Bob will be missed. I learned alot from a great man and enjoyed every minute I was around him. I truly enjoyed listening to Bob and my Uncle Don.
Jeff Techmanski
April 17, 2012
Franca, we met for 4 days in St Thomas many years ago on a Top 10 trip. My sincere condolences to you and your family. Bob was a wonderful man, a great salesman, loyal and sincere. His zest for life was contagious...he will be missed. Look out St.Peter...ol Bob is a handful! God Bless
Liz Koley
April 17, 2012
Franca, Mike, Rebecca and family: please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. Bob was an amazing person to know and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Angela Baraks
April 17, 2012
I reported directly to Bob fresh out of college and he taught me so much about business. But what I will cherish most are the life lessons that he instilled in me. His positivity and fresh perspective pushed me to try harder and accomplish more. He will be remembered always and missed greatly. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Brian Blanchette
April 17, 2012
Bob was certainly one of the most memorable I have encountered. A man of the world in the best sense, well read and curious, he embraced life and inspired those lucky enough to know him. Bob will be missed, but in his influence on others, he lives on. My best wishes and sincere condolences to his loving family and friends, and of course his IDEAL family which does miss him as well.
April 17, 2012
Your legacy lives on, Bob. It was truly a pleasure knowing you. Affectionately, Wendy a.k.a "kid"
Cherie Bieda
April 17, 2012
Please accept my deepest condolences, Bob was a wonderful man and he will be missed.
Margaret Cleveland
April 17, 2012
Dear Bob, lover of life, man of the world, we will miss you so much. You fought so hard until you could no more. I love how you loved my sister, as you did everything, with love, kindness & respect. Salute to you dear Sir. Enjoy your heavenly family now, I'm sure they were there to greet you.
Love, Margaret
Tim Rice
April 17, 2012
My dearest cousins, Franca & Mike & Jessica; and Betty & Mickey...we've lost a giant of a human being! Bob was a bright light of energy, humor, fun, integrity, compassion and loyalty. Please accept my deepest condolences and know you all will receive comfort from God. Bob is now at peace with Brett, Char & Charlie, as well as Patti & Uncle Ed. Memories will keep his love alive in all your souls forever, until Jesus accepts us into that final resting place when we join Bob again!
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