Gary Kubo

Longtime Lisle resident Gary Kubo, a man cherished for his humor, warmth, sharp mind, and devotion to family, passed peacefully on November 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and children after a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Born and raised in Chicago, Gary graduated from Lane Tech High School in 1970, Illinois State University in 1974, and soon after embarked on a rewarding career in advertising. His journey began at Foote, Cone & Belding/Chicago, and he quickly rose to become a respected leader in the industry, holding influential roles at prestigious agencies including Associate Research Director at Young & Rubicam, Group Research Director and Partner at Tatham, Laird & Kudner, Vice-President and Director of Strategic Planning & Research at Bozell, Inc., and Senior Vice-President, Director of Strategic Planning & Research at Ogilvy & Mather.
In 1995, Gary founded The KUBO Group Ltd., a Strategic Planning, Research, and Brand Development agency, which he led with dedication and vision for over 25 years. The KUBO Group worked with a diverse range of clients, including Mercedes Benz, The NutraSweet Company, Bravo Foods, Motorola, The Design Kitchen, and the Florida Lottery. Among Gary's most impactful achievements was helping to create the first-ever marketing and brand platform for Cook County Health & Hospitals System, one of the largest public health systems in the nation. His efforts contributed to exceeding the goal of enrolling over 150,000 insured lives, making a lasting difference in public health access. He was also integral in the development of Lottery Games for multiple states through his leadership at the Independent Gaming Research.
Beyond his work in advertising, Gary played a key role in encouraging the White Sox to launch a travel baseball program in 2003, helping to inspire and support young athletes. He was also dedicated to serving his community on the board of his HOA and the industry, holding a position on the Board of Directors for Chicago County Urban Affairs, being an active member of the Advertising Research Foundation, and frequently shared his insights as a speaker for the American Marketing Association.
A lover of baseball, cars, racquet sports, running, and music, Gary was also a lover of laundry, thanks to his years working with client Procter & Gamble. For the last 35 years, his wife Harriet was always thankful.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Robert S. and Hideko (Nishimura) Kubo. Gary's father served proudly in the decorated 442nd Regimental Combat Unit, an all-Japanese American battalion in WWII whose bravery inspired Gary throughout his life. His mother, who endured internment in Idaho during the war, instilled in him values of resilience, empathy, and a commitment to justice.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Harriet (Davenport), his children, Michael (Neca) Kubo, Scott (Julie) Kubo, his grandchildren Will, Mia, and Miles Kubo.
Visitation will be held Friday, November 15th from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Friedrich - Jones Funeral Home, 44 S. Mill Street, Naperville, IL. Funeral services begin on Saturday, November 16th at 11:00 a.m. at Friedrich - Jones Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the Kubo family kindly requests donations be made in Gary's honor to the American Cancer Society, to support their mission and to provide hope to those affected by the disease.