James "Jim" Lee Kuhlmey

James (Jim) Lee Kuhlmey was born on May 25, 1944, to Floyd and Elna Kuhlmey in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Jim was born in a home with the assistance of a mid-wife while Jim’s Dad was serving in the war effort.  Jim was their middle son, between brothers Tim and Tom.  Jim and his family moved to Anoka when he was 8 years old.  Jim grew up in Anoka, wrestled for Anoka High School, winning many matches.  He won 3rd in the State in 1962 at 133 pounds.  He also wrestled for St. Cloud State.

Jim married Nancy Faith Hazewinkel in 1965.  Nancy and Jim had two daughters, Jessica and Prudence.  Jim and Nancy built their first home in northern Anoka County with the help of many friends.  In 1980 Jim and Nancy moved to Arizona for two years.  They returned to Minnesota and they raised their daughters in Andover.  Jim’s wife Nancy passed away of cancer in 1996.

Jim completed his electrical education at Dunwoody, graduating in 1968.  He worked as a journeyman for a couple of years before becoming a Master Electrician.  Jim started, owned and managed Mid Electric, LLC. for many years.  Jim loved his job and was continuing to work at least 20 hours a week.

Jim married again in 2004 to Jean Cook Jackson.  He expanded his family to include Jean’s son Dan and her sister and mom.

Jim had a complete love for motorcycles and classic cars.  Dirt bike racing was a loved hobby and Jim won many races and earned many trophies.  He enjoyed his cars and motorcycles and was a fixture at the summer Anoka Saturday night car shows, wearing his favorite T-shirt and jeans.  Jim served as his own mechanic and enjoyed working on the motorcycles and cars in his pole barn and shop.  One could nearly always find Jim in his shop and he welcomed all visitors any time.  He was happy to “talk cars” with everyone.

Most important to Jim was his faith and trust in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  His desire was that everyone would meet in Heaven.  He especially loved old hymns and looked forward to Glory.

Jim was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy.  Jim is survived by the family he loved.  Wife:  Jean Jackson; Daughters: Jessica (Troy) Morrell and Prudence (Damon) Rapozo; Grandchildren:  Ryan (Kallie) Morrell, Jenna (James) Pollworth, Abbie (Cory) Christopherson, and Riley Morrell, Josh (Danielle) Rapozo, Nic Rapozo, Lauren Rapozo, Portia Rapozo and Sophie Rapozo; one Great Grandson born to Josh and Danielle – named for his Great Grandpa, James Rapozo; and Jean’s son Daniel Jackson.  Jim is also survived by two brothers: Tim (Beryl) Kuhlmey and Tom (Cindy) Kuhlmey, numerous nieces and nephews and literally hundreds of friends.

Public visitation on Friday, September 18, 2020, from Noon-2:00 PM at Dare’s Funeral Home, 805 Main Street, Elk River.  A private memorial service will follow.  

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