Born into a privileged Houston family, Bob Kuldell "radiated charm like a Jaguar bespeaks elegance." During his  teens, Bob spent part of a summer as a house guest of Howard Hughes, a family friend. During that visit, Hughes arranged a date for Bob with movie star Jean Harlow. About the same time, Hughes gave Bob his collection of eight saxophones, setting off Bob's lifelong love affair with music (see below).

After graduating from San Jacinto High School, in Houston, Bob attended the Choate Preparatory School, where he played on the football team with classmate John F. Kennedy. Later, Bob earned a BBA Degree from the University of Texas. During World War II, he served as a Coast Guard officer in England and France.  Afterward, he returned to Houston and became an outstanding real estate developer.

Among Bob's many real estate projects were 600 homes that he built in the Robindell subdivision, named for his daughter Robin. He also excelled in shopping center construction and property leasing and management. Nevertheless, his heart remained in music. He formed several immensely successful musical groups, including the Bob Kuldell Big Band and a combo named after his 32-foot boat, Windsong. He established Bob Kuldell Music Enterprises, which became deeply involved in Houston's entertainment scene.  

Throughout his life, Bob radiated charm, courtesy, and courtliness. When his later real estate business underwent a series of setbacks, he told friends that he was simply "between fortunes." He was one of Texas Jazz Central's most enthusiastic members and continued to play tenor and baritone sax with the band until a year before his death, at age 86½, on September 16, 2002. At Bob's funeral, his saxophones were arranged at the front of the church, and the eulogy was given by Mark Holter. At a reception immediately afterward, Texas Jazz Central played Bob's favorite songs, including "It's a Wonderful World."  Bob left the band his saxophones and an enormous collection of big-band arrangements. He will always remain a beloved member of our musical family.