Edward J. Kulik, 76; Led Restoration of Chrysler Building

Edward J. Kulik, 76, an executive whose insurance company took over Manhattan’s Chrysler Building in the 1970s and restored it to elegance, died Dec. 26 in Springfield, Mass., of complications from a brain tumor.

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. acquired the famous skyscraper in foreclosure in 1985. Kulik, the company’s senior vice president, led a dramatic $23-million rejuvenation of the landmark.

Over the next four years, the structure was outfitted with modern heating, air-conditioning and ventilation systems; its elevators were retooled; and murals inside the lobby were restored.

By the time Mass Mutual sold the building in 1979, it was more than 96% occupied.

Born in Hartford, Conn., Kulik served in the Navy during World War II. He received a degree in business administration from the University of Connecticut in 1950.