Hon. Howard Robert Kaufman 1930-2015
Judge Howard Robert Kaufman, 84, went to the big courthouse in the sky 29 May 2015.
A United States Marine; an Assistant United States Attorney General; First Chief of Consumer Fraud for the State of Illinois and finally a Cook County, IL Judge, he gave of his life in many ways. Through volunteering and mentoring youth, through sharing his wisdom, humor and his zest for life, he left a mark on all he encountered.
Growing up in Brooklyn, NY his childhood was the beginning of his lessons of life. As a student at American University in Washington D.C. and at Purdue University, he developed his love for physical education. Following Purdue he joined the United States Marine Corps and led his group of men as a 2nd Lieutenant building a sense of duty, comradery and toughness that he carried throughout his life. Attending Law School at Northwestern University in Chicago, IL he received his J.D. being one of the first to receive a law degree with a BA in Physical Education.
Proud of himself, yet not in a grandiose way, he was a self-made man. Practicing law as a Prosecutor in Elk Grove Village, IL; holding private practice in Elgin and in Chicago, IL, he believed in justice. He had many colleagues including those in the legal field, in politics and others that were involved in the justice system. A dear friend to many, he leaves many lives touched in many places.
He loved to travel, loved to play sports, and had a competitive spirit and a warm place in his heart for his dear rescue Greyhound dog, Chase. He loved a good conversation, and was not afraid to share his opinion on most anything. As a Father he instilled goals, direction and love to his children, as a Partner he was caring, loving and giving. All people that crossed his path remember Howard. He will be remembered in our hearts and mind forever. “It’s good to be Chief”
Beloved Father of Susan (Doug) Kaufman and Ilene (Luis) Rivera; Grandfather of Dante; Partner to Janet Nedoba, proceeded in death by his Father Emil and Mother Helen (Levy) and Brother Carl; he spent his life serving others.
Member Comments (1)
Howard and I were office associates immediately prior to his elevation to the judiciary, and we remained friends even though a continent apart. At times, I filled in for him in Elk Grove Village, and we enjoyed each others' company, notwithstanding his New York accent.
He performed the wedding for my and my wife many years ago. When we returned from the honeymoon, my wife told me to get a certified copy of the executed license. The Clerk indicated that it had yet to be returned. Broaching Howard in chambers, he explained that for friends, he withheld filing "in case they made a mistake".
I hope his passing was peaceful.