James Leonard Kasten

James Leonard Kasten, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on July 15, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on September 3, 1938, James led a life marked by commitment to family, career, and his passions.

James dedicated a significant portion of his professional life to the trucking industry, where he worked until his retirement. He was married to his wife, Judi (Birt) Kasten, and a proud father to his daughters, Renee (Mike) Hodell and Schelie (Tim) Sulzer, and son, Scott Kasten. He found great joy in being a grandfather, leaving behind cherished memories with his grandchildren: Taylor (Justin) Hodell, Ashley (Berkley) Corvino, Derrik (Catherine) Sulzer, Nicholas Sulzer, Priya Sulzer, Alec (Jesse) Sulzer, and Scottie and Stella Kasten.

James played an active role in the lives of his children, supporting their many ambitions. A man of many interests, he enjoyed sports himself, excelling in basketball, football, and track during his time at D.C. Everest High School, from which he graduated in 1958. Notably, he earned 3rd place in the State Track meet in the shot put in his senior year, a testament to his athletic prowess.

In addition to his engagement with family, James was a diehard fan of the Everest football team and the Green Bay Packers. He relished attending practices and games, holding season tickets, and sharing these experiences with Judi and their children for over 25 years. His love for the Packers was proudly displayed on his garage walls, filled with memorabilia. Sundays often started with polka music blaring, ensuring that everyone was awake and ready for their 8:00 AM church service — a tradition reflective of his spirited personality.

James also had a passion for the outdoors, enjoying deer hunting trips with friends. Family camping trips were a staple of their lives, with over 20 years spent creating lasting memories at the Out Post and Crystal Lake campgrounds, transitioning over the years from tents to travel trailers, and ultimately a motorhome. One particularly memorable road trip took the family to Florida, a journey filled with fun memories.

James proudly served his country as part of the 32nd Infantry Division of the Army National Guard, embodying the values of service and dedication throughout his life. 

He is survived by his wife, Judi; daughters, Renee and Schelie; son, Scott; grandchildren; his sister, Bonnie (Lyle) Nass; and sister-in-laws, Jene and Diane Kasten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hattie (Borchardt) Kasten and Leonard Kasten; brothers, Dave and Kenneth Kasten; sister, Arletta (Merlyn) Kamke; sister-in-law, Faye (Lester Schwarm); brother-in-laws, Floyd (Marion) Birt, Tom (Gini) Birt; and daughter-in-law, Sally Kasten.

A visitation will be held on August 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Weston, WI, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM. James Leonard Kasten will be remembered as a family man and an avid supporter of his favorite sports teams, leaving behind a legacy of memories, a sense of humor, joking around with everyone, and a willingness to help fix and repair things that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for a donation that will be made to student atheletes in the D.C. Everest Football Program who need financial assistance for their equipment. Memorials may also be directed to St. Jude’s Children's Hospital or The Shriners Hospital.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the family with arrangements. You may sign the family guestbook at www.ascendweston.org.