Robert Kray Kilander passed away in Sarasota, Fla., on Jan. 24, 2020.
He was born in Minot, N.D., in 1943. In his early years he was an enthusiastic member of the Boy Scouts and a high school athlete. After graduating first in his class from Kendall College, Bob enrolled in DePaul Law School, where he received his juris doctor in 1969.
Bob then embarked on what was to be a long and distinguished legal career. He was appointed Assistant DuPage County State’s Attorney and he rose to the position of Head of the Grand Jury Division. In 1973 he entered the private sector as a partner and a litigation attorney in the firm of Laraia & Kilander.
After some time in the private sector, he was asked by State’s Attorney Jim Ryan to serve as first assistant state’s attorney. He was next appointed as an associate judge and thereafter elected circuit judge, where he served as presiding judge of the Law Division. Bob capped off his public service by ably leading the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court’s chief judge. He was also asked to serve as vice president of the chief judges of Illinois.
He enjoyed skiing as a young man. He also enjoyed golfing, boating on Lake Michigan, painting, competing in canoe races, traveling with friends and rehabbing houses with his sons. After attending school and living in Hinsdale for many years, in retirement he settled in Saugatuck, Mich., and spent time in Sarasota, Fla.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margot; his sons Peter and Bill; his sister Martha (Myron) Schroeder; and his brother, Don (Jo) Kilander.
A commemorative service will be held in May on a date to be announced.
