Crystal Lake, IL / Lodi, WI. - It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of James "Jim" A. Krueger, who left us far too soon on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the age of 67. Though his departure was unexpected, the warmth, joy and infectious laugh he brought to everyone around him will continue to live on in our memories.

Jim's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched: his devoted wife Jayne; his son Jeffrey and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Krueger; his treasured grandchildren, Juliana and Maximilian Krueger, who brought immeasurable joy to his later years; his sisters Sharon (Lawrence) Lavine and Sandra Cunningham; and the family he gained through Jayne - Sarah (Alex) Fryman, Crystal (Jesse) Carlson, and Cullen (Micaela) Voss, along with their children, Porter, Isla and Declan whom Jim loved as his own grandchildren.

Born on May 26, 1958, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, Jim was the beloved son of Lawrence and Shirley (Edwards) Krueger. From his early days, Jim showed determination and warmth that would define his entire life. After graduating from Crystal Lake Central High School in 1976, Jim pursued his time in the workforce before furthering his education at Northern Illinois University, where he earned his bachelor's degree.

His professional journey led him through the world of management, accounting and finance, serving as manager in the millwork industry before joining the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance as accountant and controller where he worked until his well-earned retirement.

In 1989, Jim found his first great love when he married Julie Ann Janke. Together, they built a beautiful life in Crystal Lake, raising their son Jeffrey with love, laughter, and countless precious memories. Though Julie preceded him in death in 2017, their bond remained, and the family they created together was Jim's greatest pride.

Life brought Jim a second chance at love when he married Jayne Grobe in 2020. Together, they made their home in the scenic Lodi area, where Jim discovered new adventures and embraced Jayne's family as his own.

Jim was truly a man who knew how to live life to the fullest. Whether he was cruising the lakes on his beloved pontoon during summer afternoons, carving through fresh powder on his snowmobile, teasing and playing with his cats, or cheering on his Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers, Jim approached every activity with infectious enthusiasm. He had a remarkable gift for bringing people together - his pontoon was a floating gathering place where friends and family created countless memories, and his generous spirit meant there was always room for one more at his table and always a drink ready to share.

Jim lived with an open heart, generous spirit, and infectious laugh that could light up any room. He showed us all how to find joy in simple pleasures, how to welcome others with warmth, and how to make every gathering feel like a celebration. Though we will deeply miss his presence, we find comfort knowing that his legacy of love, laughter, and friendship will continue to inspire us all.

For more information and online condolences please visit www.gundersonfh.com

In true Jim fashion, rather than flowers, the family requests that you honor his caring spirit by making donations to causes close to his heart: Dekorra Lutheran Church or Prince of Peace Lutheran Church or to your local Humane Society.

Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 South Main Street
(608) 592-3201

James A Krueger

May 26, 1958 - February 25, 2026

Share photos of James