James "Jim" A. Kirner

James A. “Jim” Kirner, age 84, of Prairie du Sac passed away April 22nd, 2026, in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on August 8th, 1941, in Baraboo, WI to Fred and Mildred (Balfanz) Kirner. His family lived on their farm in the Town of Merrimac until displaced by Badger Army Ammunition Plant. They moved to Middleton and later relocated to Prairie du Sac. He graduated from Prairie du Sac High School in 1960 where he earned all-conference honors in football, was recognized as a top basketball player, and lettered in track and baseball. After graduation, Jim served in the U.S. Army in Germany as Sergeant where he developed his excellent driving skills chauffeuring high ranking officials. After an honorable discharge he purchased his beloved Volkswagen before returning home.

On June 18, 1966, Jim married Donna Ramaker. They were happily married for nearly 60 years. Together they raised an exceptional son, Brett Kirner. Jim and Donna were ecstatic when Brett and his family returned to Sauk Prairie and raised their grandchildren next door.

Jim was an entrepreneur at heart starting with Kirner Construction where he built numerous homes in the Sauk Prairie and surrounding area. Later, Jim started Design Structures with his longtime friend and partner, John Mowitz, building several commercial structures including multiple Culver’s restaurants, Kayser Town and Country Dealership, Sauk Prairie Harley Davidson, Bank of Prairie du Sac and their Sauk City branch, and Cardinal Glass plants across the U.S. Jim also served on Bank of Prairie du Sac’s Board of Directors for 14 years. He was a self-made man in every sense, grounded in hard work and high standards.

His passion for woodworking extended beyond his professional career. He worked on numerous projects with his close friends and family including the historical windmill at North Ridge Business Park and the front door at Dorf Haus.

One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, Evelyn and Ellis. He spent countless hours with them in and out of the woodshop, working on any project they dreamed up. Jim brought so much joy to their lives and was incredibly proud of the young adults they have become. He was also a dedicated grandpa to many Kirner pets. One of his favorite pastimes was handing out a few too many treats. Those closest to Jim knew they could find him early in the morning, surrounded by friends, at local coffee spots or at one of his favorite supper clubs having an occasional cocktail. He was known and loved by many for his generosity and dedication to his community.

Jim is survived by his wife, Donna; his son, Brett (Katie) and their children, Evelyn and Ellis Kirner; and his brother Richard. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Don (Joan) Kirner; sisters, Betty (Bob) Sakrison and Shirley O’Brien; sisters-in-law, Trish Kirner and Gail Harms in addition to extended family and friends.

A visitation for Jim will be held at Hooverson Funeral Home, 251 Water St., Sauk City, WI, from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Thursday, April 30th. Military Honors will be accorded by the Lachmund-Cramer VFW Post 7694 at 4:00 pm; followed by a celebration of Jim’s life at 4:30pm at the Dorf Haus, 8931 County Hwy Y, Sauk City, WI 53583.

Jim’s family would like to extend their gratitude to SSM Health Hospice Care Team for their extraordinary care of Jim and his family over the past month.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to SSM Health Hospice Care or a local charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at hooversonfuneralhomes.com