Cris Royal Kukuk passed peacefully in the presence of his family on February 21, 2021. Cris was born in Mendota Illinois to Harold Kukuk and Fae (Miller) Kukuk on August 8, 1935. Cris, the eldest of four children, moved to Ferndale at the age of seven where his father, Harold “Slackwire” Kukuk, became the Telephone Manager. He attended Ferndale schools from age seven through graduation, enlisting in the Army at age 17.
Following honorable discharge, Cris attended Humboldt State University, San Jose State University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning an eventual PhD in Sociology. After graduating, he became a professor at the University of Missouri in Kansas City where he met his wife, Beverly. Cris and Beverly were constant companions throughout their 42-year marriage, enjoying traveling, remodeling houses, gardening, and an occasional glass (or two) of wine.
Cris was noted for his mischievousness, sense of humor, and sparkle in his blue eyes. He always had a story to tell and he loved to talk about his life in Ferndale. Favorite topics included the antics of his brothers and sister, the trouble he invariably found himself in with Mr. Page the high school principal, and listening in on calls while his “sainted Irish mother” ran the switchboard as the telephone operator. Cris was quick to offer help when he could and always kept a smile on his face. He was a true and loyal friend, husband, and father. He will be greatly missed.
Cris is preceded in death by siblings Sandra (Kukuk) Bransom and Gerald “Jerry” Kukuk, also by good friends Kay Roscoe and Charlie Lakin.
He is survived by his wife Beverly Kukuk of Crescent City, brother Don Kukuk of Ferndale, son and daughter in law Tim and Kelly Kukuk of Ferndale, step-daughter Shannan Dailey of Crescent City, niece Dottie Ridenour of Ferndale, and grandchildren Jennifer Kukuk of Chico and Jake Kukuk of Fortuna and step-grandson Alex Jones of San Antonio TX.
No services are planned at this time. The family requests you celebrate Cris’s life by remembering times you spent with him and considering a donation to the charity of your choice.