James 'Jim' H. Kuchenbecker, 63, of Madison Lake, died peacefully at home on Monday, December 6, 2010 surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Jim was born September 20, 1947 in Owatonna, Minnesota the son of Herbert and Maxine (Hunt) Kuchenbecker. He was raised and attended school in Hope and was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church. Jim lived in the area and worked at Owatonna Ford Tractor. For over 27 years, Jim was employed by W. Hodgeman in Fairmont where he worked various jobs until becoming plant foreman. He was later employed by Southern Minnesota Construction where he also worked as plant foreman. On April 17, 1993, Jim was united in marriage to Terri (Huisman) in Rock Rapids, Iowa. The couple later lived on Lake Washington near Madison Lake. A natural leader and a friend to all, Jim always tried to take care of others and offered help whenever possible, even if he was exhausted from working the entire day. Jim was a hard worker and continued working construction while battling colon cancer. He had a big heart and was truly one in a million. A well-rounded handy man, Jim was able to fix anything electrical or mechanical. In his spare time, he enjoyed tractor pulls, race cars, ice fishing, hunting, four-wheeling, and conversing with friends. He is survived by his wife and love of his life, Terri Kuchenbecker of Madison Lake; son, Greg (and Nikki) Wagenaar of North Mankato; children from his first marriage; Jeff (and Ginger) Kuchenbecker, DeDe Kuchenbecker, Kim (and John) Chappius all of Owatonna; brothers Dave Kuchenbecker of Hope and Jack (and Barb) Kuchenbecker of Albert Lea and four grandchildren. Jim also had a special place in his heart for Buddy. Buddy was Jim''s dog, his best friend and always with him. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Thursday, December 9, 2010 from 4:00PM to 8:00PM and one hour prior to the service in the church. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 10, 2010 at 11:00AM at First Lutheran Church in Hope with Reverend Josh Ehrler officiating. Interment will be in the Steele Center Cemetery. Visitation: 12/09/2010 16:00 12/09/2010 20:00 Service: and one hour prior to the service in the church 12/10/2010 11:00