John Ozcan Bulut was born April 23, 1934 in Bursa, Turkey. He is survived by his wife Shelby, sons Noyan and Timur and daughter Zerrin (Dan) Baus, and grandsons Dylan and Spencer. He was preceded in death by his parents Saduman and Sukriye, sister Istiklal and brother Nuri. John graduated from Kabatas Lisesi in Istanbul, attended Edebiyat Fakultesi (College of Literature) at the University of Istanbul before emigrating to the United States in 1955 to attend college at the age of 18. He would become a bridge builder, both literally and figuratively. He graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison and received a B.S. in civil engineering in 1959. He enjoyed a successful career as a member of prominent architectural and engineering firms in Chicago including Keiser Engineering, Murphy, and McDonough & Associates, where he left his mark on major projects including tollway expansions, O’Hare International Airport, and the design and creation of Millennium Park. He came to this country with not much more than dreams in his pocket, and retired in 2012 as the partner and Executive V.P. of McDonough &  Associates and with the respect and professional admiration of many. John was an ardent supporter of the Turkish American community here in the Chicago area. He was an instrumental figure in the creation of the Turkish-American Cultural Alliance (TACA) in Chicago, serving on the board and remaining on the board of Trustees to stay active in the community. He built many bridges between Turkey and Turkish American communities here in the Chicago area, between the Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey and visiting dignitaries. John was their fervent and constant supporter and facilitator. He was forever hopeful that the bridges built between Bursa and Chicago would lead to better and richer lives for all. He will continue to inspire friends and family to be charitable and continue building bridges for many years to come. But most of all, it was his love of family and friends that was evident, and will not be forgotten. He taught by example, how to care for, and love your friends and family. His Wednesday night friends know this. They have gotten together for over 25 years to talk, laugh, debate, reminisce and enjoy one another’s company. They are always there for one another. It’s a testament to the value he placed on his friendships that he (nor they) missed these gatherings. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 27, 2014. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2014 from 10am until 12noon at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 301-75th Street in Downers Grove. In lieu of flowers, please consider donation to American Heart Assoc. or American Lung Assoc. in his name. Info: 630-964-6500.