Steven Francis Kukla
June 26, 2023
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Service Details
Steven Francis Kukla, 72, passed away June 26, 2023. Services will be held on July 7, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA with visitation prior from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Steven was born on July 24, 1950 to Lillian Pozdol Kukla and Stanley Kukla in Chicago, IL. He graduated from Weber High School and attended college at Illinois Institute of Technology and received his Master’s degree from Governors State University in Illinois. Steven met his future wife, Virginia, and they married on August 2, 1975.
After many years of service Steven retired from Mercy Medical Center of Des Moines in 2018. He had a stellar work ethic and never gave up on a challenge - some say he was stubborn to a point but he always found a solution. Steven was a loyal fan of any Chicago sports team and enjoyed collecting Chicago team memorabilia. In addition, he took pleasure in building customized Superhero models. On the travel front, Steven and Virginia enjoyed attending baseball spring training every year, and the last several years, cruising and traveling the US and Europe. Steven also enjoyed gardening and playing golf with his friends.
Steven loved his family very much and is survived by his wife of 47 years, Virginia Mae Kukla; sons, Christopher Steven Kukla and Tony Kevin Kukla; daughter-in-law, Megan Cecile Kukla; and granddaughter, Ezri Beth Kukla.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Stanley and Lillian Kukla; and aunt, Bernice Pozdol.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for distribution to Steven’s favorite charities. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Vicki Cero
07/04/2023
Steve was at Mercy Hospital when I worked in the patient accounts area. Truly an amazing leader for all of us at Mercy. Prayers to his family and friends at this time of loss,
Paul Oderkirk
07/03/2023
I had the privilege of knowing Steve as a neighbor and a member who served on our HOA board. He was a delight to visit with whenever he was out walking with his wife Virginia. He will be sorely missed by many of his friends and neighbors here in our complex.
Dave Vellinga
06/29/2023
I had the amazing privilege of working with and knowing Steve for nearly 40 years. His legacy with Mercy and his many many colleagues and friends will be everlasting. Steve literally wrote the books on health care finance. His books were used by many university level health care management courses for years. While he was one of the smartest and hardest working individuals I have known, he also had an amazing and huge heart for everyone. We always knew Steve deeply loved Virginia and his family. Additionally, he loved the Sisters of Mercy and wholeheartedly embodied their mission. Steves life has been a blessing to me and many others.
Robert Kunnen
06/29/2023
Worked with Steve on Finance Committee at Mercy for a number of years. Always impressed by his leadership and observations. Also we served on Child Serve Board together. He was instrumental in helping CHI set meaningful financial metrics and standards and properly managing the organization to help kids. Loved working with him!