James Deichmueller

In Loving Memory

With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected passing of James (Jim) P. Deichmueller on June 23, 2025. Jim was a devoted husband, cherished son, loving father, proud Papa and Great Papa, and a beloved uncle and great-uncle. To all who had the privilege of knowing him, he was simply one of the best. Jim will be remembered for his generous heart, quick wit, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family.

Jim was born on March 17, 1943, in LaSalle, Illinois, to Charles and Helen Deichmueller. He lived a life rich in purpose, passion, and love. Raised in Peru, Illinois, Jim shared a close bond with his siblings—his beloved older sister, Linda Deichmueller-Gaudette, whom he lovingly called “Dinda Woo,” and his younger brother, Charles (Chuck) Deichmueller—sharing bonds that time could not unravel.

After graduating from LaSalle-Peru High School, Jim proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served his country for four years as an E4 aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) with Attack Squadron 113, the 'Stingers'. While stationed in California, fate stepped in on a New Year’s Eve date to welcome 1965—when he met the love of his life, Sharon Louise Hawkins. They were married on August 7, 1965, in Porterville, California, beginning a beautiful journey together. Over 44 years of marriage, they built a loving family that included three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Though Sharon left this world before him, their love story remains eternal.

Jim was a successful entrepreneur who began his career by launching his own real estate business in California. In 1985, he and his family relocated to the Midwest, where he opened a family-run video store that he and Sharon operated alongside their children. Later, he lent his talents to the sales world with Terry Monroe and Jeff Perry Auto Stores, before retiring to embrace the joy of family in North Carolina. There, they embraced their favorite role—being grandparents—spending time with their grandchildren and sharing chocolate milk, cheeseburgers, candy, rainy day walks, puddle jumping, tooth pulling, and so much more, but most importantly, unconditional love.

Their shared love of animals brought many furry family members into their lives over the years, including—but not limited to—Goofy, Alex, Lexi, and Abbi. Jim also leaves behind his beloved five-year-old golden retriever, Gabbi.

Jim lived life to the fullest, embracing countless adventures in his later years surrounded by family and friends. He marveled at the grandeur of the Vatican in Rome, trekked through the North Carolina mountains, and celebrated joyous occasions on the West Coast. He enjoyed cruising to the Bahamas with his best friend of 72 years, camped beneath starlit skies, chased waterfalls, savored mountain pies, and soaked up the Florida sun—always ensuring he returned home with a crisp leathery tan. A passionate reader whose love for books opened doors to new ideas, timeless wisdom, and endless wonder. He loved to play cribbage, even when he argued about who was a “shit” dealer. He was a life-long golfer teaching his children how to play when they were big enough to hold a golf club. The time spent on the golf course with the ones he loved and cared about created everlasting memories. One of his proudest golfing moments was carding an “ace” — a feat he thought impossible since both his father and brother had already claimed theirs.

Together, Jim and Sharon’s unwavering love, shared faith, and dedication to family created a legacy cherished by all. Jim is survived by his beloved children, Kevin and Julie of Rock Island, Illinois; Jason and Alissa of Selma, North Carolina; and Kelli of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. His grandchildren—Franki, Chelsea, Zoie, JT, Tyler, and Lauryn—and great-granddaughters Emma and Bella carry his spirit forward. He is also survived by his siblings Linda (“Dinda Woo”) and Chuck of LaSalle, Illinois, and his companion of ten years, Rebecca (Becky) Armstrong. Their companionship was one of life’s quiet blessings — built on shared memories, unwavering support, deep trust, and the kind of understanding that needed no words.

Now reunited with his beloved Sharon, his parents Charles and Helen, and sister Mary Burgess in heaven, Jim embarked on his final journey with the same grace and courage that defined his life. He looked forward to that reunion, having spent a lifetime preparing his family for the day. With love, wisdom, and strength, he guided us—and as he taught, we will hold each other close and wrap our arms around family, just as we always have.

Jim’s life stands as a testament to dedication, love, and the power of family. Though he walks no longer among us, his spirit lives on—in the laughter, the memories, and the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Until we meet again, Dad—always loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

Family services will be held, at a later date, in Woodville, CA with full military honors where he will be laid, united with his wife, Sharon.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor the long-standing family’s tradition, donations can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital.