John was born December 7, 1935, to Emil and Betty Kuczmarski. He was the sixth of 12 children. He married his beloved Sunnie, and they shared 67 years together. He is survived by Sunnie; their children, Kelley (Perry) Pazdernik, Michael (Cherylyn) Kuczmarski, and Terri Steinhaus; grandchildren Jesse(Sarah), Jacob, Michael(Hailey), Sean(Ashley), Carlee, Lane(Tyler), Jack; five great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Betty Ann Kopp, Ramona, Charmaine (Terry), and Barbara. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Joyce (Eugene) Tiesling, Emil Jr. (Rose), Robert (Pat), Donald (Clare), Carl (Joanne), Richard (Beverly), and Conrad Kuczmarski.
John graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1953 and briefly attended River Falls University. He worked on the family farm and for the Soo Line Railroad, beginning his lifelong love of trains. He proudly served 23 years in the Army National Guard and was called to active duty during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He remained proud of his service and owned an Army truck he drove in the Fourth of July Parade.
John owned and operated Farmer’s Feed Store in Rhinelander for 41 years, from 1970 to 2011. He was known for his knowledge, business sense, humor, generosity, and ability to make everyone feel welcome.
John and Sunnie traveled throughout the United States and to the British Virgin Islands, where John loved sailing. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, travel, and friendship.
A man of deep faith, John served as a Catholic usher for more than 20 years. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and fellow soldier. He loved cooking and gathering family and friends. His kindness, humor, generosity, and love will be deeply missed.
The family thanks all healthcare workers who cared for John.
