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Jim Kuempel
JIM KUEMPEL
Guttenberg
Jim Kuempel of Guttenberg passed away Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016, at Hiawatha Care Center in Hiawatha. He was born Aug. 5, 1927, in Guttenberg to John T. and Hilda Kuempel.
Jim graduated from St. Mary's High School in Guttenberg and attended the University of Iowa and Loras College. Jim served two years in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1945. After that he began working at Kuempel and Lake Hardware in Guttenberg. In 1961, Jim partnered with his father and purchased half the business which became Kuempel Hardware. In 1968, Jim's brother, Tom, purchased his dad's half. Tom became sole owner in 1995, when Jim retired.
In June 1950, Jim married Lou Gilchrist. He loved Guttenberg, where he spent all but his last few years, and served the community through many organizations. These included Rotary, Guttenberg Fire Department, lifetime member of St. Mary's Parish, member of the St. Mary's Choir, Knights of Columbus, over 60 years as member of the American Legion, member of 40 & 8 and the Guttenberg German Band.
He was very proud of the contribution made as a member of the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital board for over 35 years. Aside from his civic contributions, Jim enjoyed spending time hunting, fishing and with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lou; sons, Mike (Marla) and Dan (Deena); daughter, Jeanne; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Kathleen Dunn and Clara Mae Kuempel; and brother, Tom.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob; sister, Bernyce Elsinger; and three siblings who died in infancy.
Arrangements are being handled by Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home, 207 S. First St., Guttenberg. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Guttenberg. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, by the Rev. Marvin Bries. Interment will be at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery, Guttenberg. There will be a luncheon in the church basement following services.
Memorials may be made in Jim's name to the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital or St. Mary's Catholic Church.
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