STOUGHTON/MONONA - John Phillip “Jake” Kinder, 71, of Pleasant Springs, Wis., passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from complications following surgery to address issues stemming from a car accident in 1973.

Born on June 18, 1954, Jake - the name by which everyone knew him - grew up a kind and gentle giant, whose quiet strength and warm heart touched the lives of all who knew him. He spent much of his life in the Madison area, most recently making his home in Pleasant Springs after living in McFarland and Monona.

Jake worked as an electrician for nearly 40 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, at times working long stretches of overtime, including one period of nine straight months without a day off. And yet, somehow, he never missed one of his kids’ sporting or school events. Beyond his career, Jake was, above all, a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in the people he loved. Especially his wife Shar, who he loved more deeply than anything. The love they had for each other is a model for us all. Together they built a life of friendship and love. He loved his family with all he had.

Jake especially cherished watching his grandchildren play their sports - cheering them on with a not so quiet enthusiasm from the sidelines. In his garage, he enjoyed putzing and working at his lathe, carefully crafting beautiful pens that he often shared as thoughtful gifts. These hands-on pursuits reflected the patient, creative side of a man who found satisfaction in making things with care and precision.

Jake is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Sharleen Kinder; his daughter, Cassinda Perkins, and son-in-law, Bruce Perkins; his son, John P. Kinder II (JP), and daughter-in-law, Megan Kinder; his cherished grandchildren, Ava Perkins, Andy Perkins, Summer Kinder and John P. Kinder III (Jack); his sisters, Mary Blue (Wayne) and Jody Adam (Ed); and his nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Leona Kinder (Baba Jo); his father, Chester Kinder; and his brother, Father Patrick Kinder.

Jake was deeply loved by his family and friends, and he will be remembered for his gentle spirit and generous nature. Jake’s family and many friends will carry fond memories of his youthful, sometimes inappropriate humor, his reliable presence, comforting hugs and the way he made everyone around him feel valued and at ease. Though his time with us has ended, the impact of his loving heart and steady spirit will remain with all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff at UW Hospital for the exceptional care and kindness they provided to Jake during his hospital stay. Their support brought comfort to us during this difficult time.

Please join us for Jake’s Celebration of Life at HALVERSON’S EVERYTHING NICE, 1965, Barber Drive, Stoughton, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026. Light refreshments will be available along with a cash bar. Bring your stories to share; we are so looking forward to hearing them.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

John "Jake" P. Kinder

June 18, 1954 - April 15, 2026

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