James Lee Kieffer

1944 - 2023

James Lee Kieffer

July 21, 1944 – Oct. 22, 2023

BARABOO - James Lee Kieffer, 79, of Baraboo, passed away on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at St. Clare Meadows. Jim was born on July 21, 1944 in Muskegon, MI to Julia Brown and William Kieffer. Upon Julia's death, Mae Peerson wed William and became Jim's step-mother.

Jim graduated from Baraboo High School in 1962, then attended UW-Eau Claire and earned a Bachelor's of Science in 1967, following that up with a Master's of Science in 1968 from UW-Stout.

Jim was a lifelong community leader beginning with his Outstanding Leadership and Musicianship Award from the Baraboo High School Band in 1962.

An active volunteer, he was a member of many service organizations including the Al, Ringling Theatre Friends, Jaycees, Kids Companion, Baraboo School Board, Rotary, the +Elks, St. Clare Hospital, Circus World Museum Foundation, CWM, Inc., and First United Methodist Church. He most recently served as a Board Member, Treasurer, and Executive Director of the Friends of the UW Platteville-Baraboo/Sauk County Campus. He received both the Jaycee Distinguished Service Award and Al Dippel Community Service Award. Jim always volunteered his services not for recognition but to give back to his community.

In addition to his volunteer work, Jim was an accomplished singer and founding member of the local gospel singing group, The Messengers, formed in 1984. He also served as Accountant and President of Industrial Coils, the family business, which played an important role in the economic development of the Baraboo community. Jim's dedicated volunteer work and outstanding business leadership continues to be a positive legacy for his family and community.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brothers: William, Robert, and Jerry.

Jim is survived by his wife, Shirley; sisters-in-law: Delores (William) and Audrey (Jerry); children: Dawn, Susan, Cory, and Jason (Lindsey); grandchildren: Michael, Angelia, Aaron, Kaitlin, Clint, Carson, and Evelyn; great-grandchildren: Ava, Remi; niece, Mary Ann; nephews: Dan, Bill, and Bob; step-brother, Bob; and step-sister, Suzanne.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2023 at the First Presbyterian Church, 416 Ash St., Baraboo, with Pastor David Gilmore officiating. Visitation will take place at the church on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the First Presbyterian Church or the Circus World Museum.

Baldwin Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.