MONONA - James E. “Jim” Darwin, age 85, of Monona, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. He was born on March 10, 1940, in Ashland, Wis., to Sherwood “Jay” and Mildred “Mil” (Gintner) Darwin.

Jim graduated from Iron River High School in Iron River, Wis., and earned his degree in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He remained a proud member of the UW Alumni community throughout his life. In 1962, Jim married Kathleen Moran, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and dedication. Together, they raised four children in Monona, creating a warm and nurturing home.

He devoted 35 years of service to the State of Wisconsin, working as an accountant across several departments before retiring in 2000. In addition to his state service, Jim also served as a part-time treasurer for the City of Monona for many years. Even in retirement, he remained active in the community, helping maintain local ball diamonds and supporting parks and recreation programs through part-time work with the city.

Jim had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in hunting and fishing throughout his life. He cultivated a large garden for many years and passed down his love of gardening to his children and grandchildren, inspiring them to grow their own home gardens.

A devoted supporter of his family, Jim could often be found cheering from the sidelines at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. Bowling was another cherished pastime he enjoyed with family and friends. Saturday mornings were especially meaningful, as he shared donuts and laughter with his grandchildren during their youth bowling league.

Jim also found comfort in music, often humming along and tapping his foot to the rhythm, finding peace and happiness in the simple pleasure of a good tune.

Jim is survived by his wife, Kathleen; daughters, Patti (Mark) Allen and Teri (Tom) Kuntzsch; sons, Mike (Laure Bollinger) Darwin and Tony Darwin; granddaughters, Cassie (Kaleb Hunter) Kuntzsch, Emily (Sean) Marks, Shelby (Hunter Pursell) Allen, Tayler (Ryan) Pahmeier and Zoey Darwin; and grandsons, Colton (Lauren Liva) Darwin, Dan (Karissa) Kuntzsch and Riley Allen; and brothers, Jerry (Judy) Darwin, Dave Darwin and Dennis Darwin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sherwood and Mildred Darwin; brother, Ronnie Darwin; sister, Ginger (Steve) Weyandt; and sister-in-law, Patti Darwin.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

Memorials may be made to Monona Parks and Recreation, Monona Grove Hockey, Monona Fire or Police Departments. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

James E "Jim" Darwin

March 10, 1940 - August 27, 2025

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