Arlington Heights man dies in motorcycle crash

An Arlington Heights man was killed Sunday when his motorcycle collided with a minivan in Woodstock, authorities said.

Patrick J. Lulling, 54, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which occurred at 4:25 p.m. in the intersection of U.S. Route 14 and Dean Street, Woodstock police Sgt. Chip Amati said Monday.

For the past 13 years, Lulling worked at the Arlington Heights Park District as a general tradesman.

Executive Director Steve Scholten said he was a well-respected, hardworking and compassionate person and one of the 2012 winners of the park district's CLASS awards, which recognizes employees who go above and beyond.

“He lovingly took care of our ball fields and was willing to do whatever he could to help,” Scholten said. “He kept everything extremely well-maintained so people could enjoy them.”

Nancy Aldrich, superintendent of human resources at the park district, said Lulling, a big motorcycle buff, was returning from the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. He also loved the White Sox and shared season tickets with some employees.

Lulling is survived by his wife, Barbara, and two daughters. He also worked with his son, Corey Lulling, a groundsman for the park district.

“Pat was the first person you'd see in the morning and a good mentor to the younger staff,” Aldrich said. “There will be a deep hole in everyone's heart here.”

According to a preliminary investigation, both Lulling and the driver of the minivan went against red lights at the time of the collision, police said. Lulling was eastbound on Route 14 and attempted to cross the intersection against a red light, according to police. He was not wearing a helmet, said Amati.

Authorities said Glenn L. Powers of Woodstock, the driver of the minivan, turned left from Route 14 onto southbound Dean Street after his light had turned red. Powers, who was treated and released at a hospital, was cited for failure to yield while turning left at an intersection, police said.

Woodstock police and the McHenry County Coroner's office continue to investigate.