Early Life & Ministry
Kucera was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 7, 1923 and given the name William. His parents were Joseph F. and Lillian (Petrzelka) Kucera.
Kucera was educated at St. Procopious College (now known as Benedictine University) in Lisle, Illinois. He took the religious name of Daniel when he professed religious vows June 16, 1944 at St. Procopius Abbey in the Order of Saint Benedict. On May 26, 1949 he was ordained a priest. Kucera earned a doctorate in education from The Catholic University of America in 1954. His background in education has led Vatican officials — including the Pope — to ask his advice on educational matters. He served in various administrative positions at St. Procopius College until he was named the college's president. On July 8, 1964 he was elected Abbot of St. Procopius Abbey and received his abbatial blessing on August 19, 1964. He served as abbot until June 1, 1971 when he resigned to became the college's president again.
On June 6, 1977, Pope Paul VI named Kucera Titular Bishop of Natchesium and Auxiliary Bishop of Joliet. He was ordained a bishop by Bishop Romeo Roy Blanchette of Joliet. Bishops Andrew Gregory Grutka of Gary and Raymond James Vonesh, Auxiliary Bishop of Joliet, served as primary co-consecrators.
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