James D. Kollauf

James D. Kollauf, age 75 of Ashland, WI passed away peacefully at his home with his loving family near his side on Monday, March 10, 2025. Jim was born on July 1, 1949 in Ashland, the son of Daniel and Shirley (Gregoire) Kollauf, Jr.
Jim attended DePadua School and was in the class of 1967. He furthered his education at Northland College and received a bachelor's degree in biology in 1973. He was united in marriage to Cindy J. Mihalek on his birthday, July 1, 1972 in Ashland. Jim had many outdoor activities which consisted of gardening, trap shooting, hunting, trapping and fishing. He was an avid sports enthusiast. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends at the Long Lake cabin. He will be known for the gift of making people smile and laugh.
Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years, Cindy J. Kollauf of Ashland; son, Ryan (Kris Nevala) Kollauf of Ashland; daughter, Shanda Detsch of Somerset, WI; granddaughter, Britni Detsch of Somerset, WI; siblings, Diane (Scott) Bayliss of Ashland, Bill Kollauf of Ashland, and Paul Kollauf of Eau Claire, WI; brothers in law, Bill (Char) Mihalek and Rick (Liz Sutton) Mihalek; sister in law, Barb Bitzer; special bonus grandson, Jake Nevala; loyal canine companion, Molly; many nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Shirley M. Reed; father-in-law, Richard W. Mihalek Sr. (Johanna); mother-in-law, Elizabeth L. Naser; grandparents, Daniel Sr. and Pearl Kollauf; nephews, Bryan Mihalek and Aaron Mihalek; special family member, Bob Bitzer.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Ashland, with Fr. Jerome D'Souza as Celebrant.
A gathering of family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m., and continue until the hour of service at the church.
A private family interment will take place at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.