Christopher M. Kudla
Brethren, we are gathered here today to bear witness to the homegoing of a man of valor, a steadfast protector of our community, and a servant of the Lord. Christopher Michael Kudla, known affectionately to us all as Chris, was called to his eternal rest on the 24th of October in the year of our Lord 2024. Born on the 26th of November in the year 1971, in the town of Berwyn, IL, Chris was a beacon of light that shone brightly throughout his 52 years upon this Earth.
Brothers and sisters, Chris was a man who took up the mantle of education at Joliet Junior College, while he was serving as a guardian of peace. He wore the badge of a police officer with honor and distinction in the towns of Lyons, Sleepy Hollow, Montgomery, and Riverside. His dedication to duty was matched only by his entrepreneurial spirit, which led him to establish and successfully operate A Blue Line Appliance Repair Services. Indeed, Chris was not just a man of the law, but also a craftsman and a businessman, who served his community with both his mind and his hands. Our dear Chris was a man of many passions. He found solace in the gentle ripple of a fishing line cast into tranquil waters, the focused drive of a well-played round of golf, and the joyful camaraderie among friends at the bowling alley. Through these simple pleasures, he expressed the fullness of his humanity and the depth of his joy for life.
Let us speak now of the character of the man. Chris was the embodiment of selflessness; he placed others before himself at every turn. Courageous, he faced the trials and tribulations of this world with a heart full of bravery. And, oh, how his faith sustained him! He was a faith-filled man who walked hand in hand with the Lord, his steps guided by an unwavering belief in the grace and mercy of our Savior. As we commit his soul to the Almighty, let us remember Chris not with sorrow, but with gratitude. For to have known such a man is to have been touched by the divine brush of God's own handiwork. Christopher Michael Kudla, a true servant, a loving friend, and a man of God, has completed his earthly journey and now rests in the glorious light of eternal day. So let us dry our eyes and lift our hearts in praise, for Chris has found his peace in the arms of the Lord. He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, and he has kept the faith. Now, there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give him on that day. And so, until we meet again, let us hold fast to the love and memories that Chris has left in our care. Amen.
Survived by his wife, Tricia Kudla; daughters, Amanda and Ashley Kudla; parents, Dennis (Virginia) Kudla; siblings, Roger Kudla, David Kudla, and Alyceson (Andy) Niemi; in-law's, Barbara (Charles) McDonnell; sister-in-law's, Jennifer (Ernesto) Mota, Marie McDonnell, and Angelina (Chris) Wells; brother-in-law, John (Ashley Kern) McDonnell and his beloved pets. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, friends and friends that became family.
Preceded in death by his sister, Cindy Stykes; grandparents, Joseph (Virginia) Kudla, and Joseph (Addiemae) Oxendine.
Memorial services for Chris will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024, 11:00 am, at Crossroads Christian Church, 2312 Essington Road, Joliet, IL. Memorial visitation will be held from 10:00am until time of services. Per Chris's wishes, cremations rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family would be most appreciated.
For more information, please call 815-725-0100 or visit
www.farkasfuneralhome.com.

Published by Herald-News on Oct. 29, 2024.