James “Jim” William Edward Kuhlmeier passed away, July 16, 2026 at Javon Bea Hospital, Rockford, IL. Born on December 25, 1951 in Freeport, IL to Howard and Kathryn (Downey) Kuhlmeier, of Dakota, IL.

Jim was a 1970 graduate of Dakota High School. where he was proud to be on the first wrestling team, and was also active in the FFA Chapter. He went on to graduate from Highland Community College and Southern Il University in Carbondale.

He was a lifetime Dakota farmer, who enjoyed raising corn and soybeans. He was a staunch Green Bay Packer fan and a diehard St. Louis Cardinals fan. In his younger years, he traveled extensively on his Gold Wing Honda and enjoyed many motorcycle events and activities. He enjoyed many canoeing trips with friends on the WI River. In later years, he made many trips to casinos, and enjoyed playing cards with a wide circle of friends. He also spent several years serving as a Stephenson County Board member.

He is survived by sisters, Janet (Mills) Kneller and Rae Kuhlemeyer, and brother, Frederick “Fritz” (Sally) Kuhlmeier. Also survived by nieces and nephews: Heidi (Eric) Morgan, William “Bill” (Rose) Kneller, Greg (Leann) Kuhlemeyer, Brent (Molly) Kuhlemeyer, Scott (Christine) Kuhlemeyer, Michelle (Jason) Baldowsky, Nick (Angela) Kuhlmeier, Patrick (Alicia Crow) Kuhlmeier, and Stacey (Jeff) Rogers. Also survived by many great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, infant brother, brother in law, Kenneth Kuhlemeyer, nephew, Michael Kuhlemeyer, and great nephews, Jace and Colton Harnish, and Azazel Fischer.

A visitation will be held at Daughenbaugh funeral home on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 beginning at 10am. A service will follow at 11am also at the funeral home. His final resting place will be at Dakota Cemetery next to his parents. Condolences can be shared with the family at www.walkermortuary.com. Daughenbaugh funeral home assisted the family with arrangements.