James Stanley Kallenbach

James Stanley Kallenbach, age 86, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026, at Spooner Health in Spooner, Wisconsin. James lived a life defined by hard work, service, family, and dedication. He was known for his quiet strength, warm smile, generous heart, and willingness to help others.

Jim was born on September 10, 1939 to parents Stanley and Elsie (West) Kallenbach and grew up in Prairie Farm with older brother John. Following graduation from Prairie Farm High School he attended UW-Stout Menomonie before being called home to work the family farm due to Stanley's declining health. Jim married his high school sweetheart Diane Landskov on May 9, 1959 in Prairie Farm where they continued farming until 1968. 

In 1968 Jim & Diane sold the family farm and moved to Barron where he worked in the oil industry from 1968 to 1987 delivering fuel oil and operating filling stations in Barron and Chetek.  After selling the oil business he dabbled in various maintenance jobs until he semi-retired. In 2000 Jim and Diane followed their daughter Suzi to the Northwoods of Spooner where they lived on the lake, flipped multiple cabins and had endless hours “horsing around”. 

James had a lifelong passion for Arabian horses. He enjoyed raising, training, and showing them, and took great pride in the success of his horses, including two Top Ten winners at the U.S. and Canadian National Arabian Horse Championships. His love of horses brought him many friendships, accomplishments, and treasured memories.

Dedicated to serving his community, James was a member of the Barron Maple Grove Fire Department, served as Fire Inspector, Boy Scout Leader, 4H leader and was an active member in the Lions Clubs in Prairie Farm, Barron and Webb Lake.  

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane. He is lovingly survived by his children, Peter Kallenbach, Dean Kallenbach (Marcus Buggs), Suzi (Jason) Kohl; and his beloved grandson, Theo. He will also be deeply missed by extended family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, assistants, therapists, and staff at Shell Lake Health Center and Spooner Health for the compassionate care and kindness they provided.

A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spooner, WI on July 25th at 1pm.

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