Hon. Stuart Katz OBITUARY

Hon. Stuart Katz OBITUARY

On May 22, 2026, we lost someone truly irreplaceable. The Honorable Stuart Katz devoted his professional life to public service, fairness, and the administration of justice. After serving for almost 23 years in the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, where he developed a deep understanding of the families affected by the justice system, Stuart became an Associate Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County in 2007. Stuart completed important work while serving in the Juvenile Justice Division, as well as during his retirement, where his commitment to young people, rehabilitation, accountability, and compassion was evident. His career reflected the highest ideals of the legal profession: that the law can be principled and humane, and that justice can help repair harm, strengthen families, and build community.  

Stuart had a remarkable gift for bringing people together whether to have fun, build rapport or achieve common goals. He believed anyone can make a difference in the lives of others. Stuart volunteered as a coach and mentor to Jewish youth for many years through his work with B’nai Brith Youth Organization (BBYO).  He was a proud member of the Alliance of Illinois Judges (AIJ), serving as its president for one term. As the longtime president of his condo association, Stuart worked tirelessly to make the building not just a place to live, but a place to truly belong.

Stuart will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.  Stuart was the most loving husband, a supportive brother, an incredible friend, a beloved colleague, a trusted mentor, and a valued member of many communities. His commitment to service, his devotion to his family and friends, his integrity and modesty, his charming sense of humor, and his kindness to those around him will be long remembered.

Stuart will be forever loved by his husband, Keith Erickson; lovingly remembered by his stepmother, Muriel “Cookie” Katz; his brothers, Howard (Dan Powell) and Ken (Sahara); his niece Brittany (Jason Roth) and nephew, Landon (Domniq) and his great-nephew (Miller).  Stuart was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Betty Katz.  Stuart will be forever remembered by his in-laws, Arthur and Terera Erickson, as well as his brothers-in-law, James (Nancy) Erickson and Brian Erickson, his sister-in-law, Christine (Martin) Jahn and nieces (Meghan and Nicole) and nephew (Brian).

Details for an event celebrating Stuart’s life are forthcoming.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Hon. Stuart Katz’s memory to the James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy, a nonprofit legal aid organization dedicated to advancing justice and restoring hope for young people and families. Donations can be made online at https://moran-center.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/.