Frank J. Kudjer, 99, of Prospect Heights, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025. Born on November 17, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Frank met the love of his life, Mary Ann (née Wurtz), and they were married on April 26, 1947. Their union was the foundation of a life rich in love, family, and community.
Frank dedicated 40 years of service managing the refrigeration department at the Santa Fe Railroad, retiring in 1985. A man of many passions, he was a devoted Little League coach and a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Ever adventurous, he learned to snow ski at the age of 60. Frank was also a faithful member of St. Alphonsus Liguori Church, where he served as an usher for 35 years.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 78 years, Mary Ann; his children, Linda (Richard) Soukup of Arlington Heights, William (Karen) Kudjer of Downers Grove, and James (Dianna) Kudjer of Schaumburg. He was a cherished grandfather to Jeff (Annalisa) Soukup, John (Carrie) Soukup, Kristin (Nathaniel) Orr-Depner, Michael (Kristin) Soukup, Melissa (Brian) Hedinger, Derek Kudjer, Sean (Heather) Kudjer, and Jamie (Michael) Matej. Frank’s legacy lives on through his great-grandchildren: Liesl and Anderson Soukup; Allie, Charles, Molly, and Jack Soukup; Karina and Parker Soukup; Hailey and Skyler Orr-Depner; and Kennedy and Lily Hedinger.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, John and Theresa Kudjer, and his brother, John (the late Marilyn) Kudjer. Frank will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his community spirit, and a life lived with kindness, humor, and purpose.
Funeral Mass Thursday August 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Liguori Church, 411 N. Wheeling Road, Prospect Heights, IL 60070. Entombment to follow at All Saints Catholic Cemetery, 700 N. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016.
