James G. "Jim" Kauss

1937 - 2025

Janesville, WI - James "Jim" G. Kauss, age 88, of Janesville, passed away on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Janesville. He was born in Medford, on February 13, 1937, the son of Sophia Kauss. Jim married Carole Ann Radl on September 15, 1956, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Elroy. He worked for General Motors for 45 years, until his retirement in 2000. He was a baseball coach for over 60 years, coaching Babe Ruth, Legion, and High School. He worked with Roy Coyle, Dan Madden, Kerry Michaels and many others teaching the game. Jim also umpired for many years at Back of the Yards. He loved teaching and mentoring kids to be very well disciplined. He enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, trapping and spending time at the cabin. He was an avid Harley rider and made numerous trips across the country. Jim was very outgoing and known for his colorful commentary as well as singing the Wabash Cannonball. He was a member of UAW Local 95.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carole; 3 children: Del (Linda) Kauss of St. Paul, MN, Kathi (Dan) Braun of Janesville and Don Kauss of Loganville; 10 grandchildren: Kyle, John (Marissa), Caleb, Alison (Kebu) Joshua (Jen), Matthew (Theresa), Taylor (Erin), Bodhi, Rowan and Michael; 9 great grandchildren; 4 siblings: Joan Kovatch, Carla Schmeiser-Bauer, Gordon Schmeiser, and Al (Judy) Schmeiser, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David Schmeiser.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025, at the APFEL WOLFE FUNERAL HOME, 21 S. Austin Rd, Janesville. A Sharing of Memories beginning at 5:30 p.m. will bring the celebration at the funeral home to an end. An additional celebration of life will then immediately follow at Bogey's Bar & Grill. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Janesville Youth Baseball. For on-line condolences: www.apfelwolfe.com