We bid farewell to Charles “Rich” Kukral, Sr. who was born on March 5th, 1944, and passed away on November 24th, 2024 at the age of 80. 

Rich was born in Hammond, Indiana, and grew up in Hialeah, Florida before raising his family in National Park, New Jersey. Rich enlisted into the Navy from 1963 to 1967. Stationed on USS San Pablo (AGS 30) with a focus on deep ocean surveying, he rose to the rank of E-3 Seamen. During a port visit in Philadelphia he met the love of his life Ellen Carol Walls and they were married in Philadelphia on January 14th 1967. The two were inseparable during their marriage of 49 years. They enjoyed dancing, catching a movie or going on long car rides just enjoying each other’s company with no particular destination. Rich worked as a draftsman/ CAD specialist for 30+ yrs at Taylor Wiseman Taylor in Mt Laurel NJ.

He was a loving and supportive father to Jennifer (Mark) Young, Rick (Denise) Kukral, John Kukral, Daniel (Lori) Kukral, and Rebecca (Pat) Murphy. He is remembered by 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, who will forever be reminded to always "Enjoy your moments.”, and  to “make it happen.”  He is also survived by brother Fred Kukral of Kokomo Indiana. 

If he wasn’t cracking a joke, you could find him planting in his garden or eating at a local diner. A pillar of strength and a beacon of love, his absence leaves a void in our hearts.

To commemorate his remarkable life, a visitation will be held at McGuinness Funeral Homes in Woodbury, New Jersey on December 20th, 2024 from 10am - 12pm, followed by words of remembrance at 12pm. Rich will be laid to rest with military honors at Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery immediately following. We welcome all who knew him to join us in celebrating his life and all of the memories we cherish.