Ideal Industries, Sycamore, Ill., announced the passing of its former vice president of sales, Robert "Bob" Bukowsky at age 71. Ideal described Bukowsky as "a world-class salesman" who joined the company as national sales manager and was named vice president of sales in 1993.
"During his tenure with Ideal, Bob achieved many milestones, including the development of several distributor development programs, development of Ideal's territory growth program, and most notably the successful transition of the company's position in the market from primarily selling wire connectors and hand tools into a thriving and innovative supplier of a diverse range of installation and testing solutions across several markets."
Bukowsky and his wife, Franca, were regulars at meetings of the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED). He became a member of the organization's Manufacturer's Council in 2003, was chair in 2008 and in 2011 received Honorary Life Membership. NAED also recognized him with its Associate Award for outstanding contributions of an individual to the industry in 2007. Bob served on the National Electrical Manufacturers Representatives Association (NEMRA) Manufacturers Group Executive Committee from 2000-2004, including the role of Chairman in 2003-2004. In 2005, at their 35th Annual Conference in New York, he was honored with the Thomas F. Preston Award for his steadfast support of NEMRA and its independent manufacturer representatives. Bob retired from Ideal in May 2008.
Bukowsky is survived by his wife, Franca; son, Michael (Rebecca); grandchildren, Caden and Carter; sister, Elizabeth; brother, Michael; Franca's daughter, Jessica Davis; Brett and Mike's mother, Sandra Bukowsky; and many other family and friends.
An online guest book has been set up at www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com.