John Anthony Kuczmarski

John Anthony Kuczmarski passed away peacefully at home on September 14, 2026.

John was born December 7, 1935, on the Packard Farm in Starks to Emil and Betty Kuczmarski. He was the sixth of 12 children. 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. He is survived by Betty Ann Kopp, Ramona, Charmaine (Terry), and Barbara.

John graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1953 and briefly attended University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He worked on the family farm and for 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 married his beloved Sunnie, and they shared 67 years together. They traveled throughout the United States and to the British Virgin Islands, where John loved sailing. They raised Kelley (Perry) Pazdernik, Michael (Cherylyn) Kuczmarski, and Terri Steinhaus and were blessed with eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

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. Memorials may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Visitation for John will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 11:30 a.m., all at the Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church. Father Jerome D'Souza will be officiating. Interment will follow in the Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Cemetery. You may leave your private condolences for the Kuczmarski family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is serving the Kuczmarski family.