James Kuntz

James L. Kuntz, 87, of Plains, MT, formerly of Newark, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

Visitation will be held Saturday, May 16th from 1 to 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Chatsworth. His funeral will follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Chatsworth-Charlotte Cemetery.

Mr. Kuntz was born on August 11, 1938 in Fairbury, IL, to Frank B. and Leona M. (Falck) Kuntz. He is survived by his children, Eric Kuntz of Plains, MT, and Aaron (Sara) Kuntz of Chicago, IL, and their mother, Rose Ebert of Sandwich, IL. His four grandchildren are Anmarie, Joshua, Kira, and Cole, and his three great-grandchildren are Delilah, Roxxan, and Jax. Also surviving are his stepchildren Karen Masson of Rocklin, CA, and David (Julie) Gottlieb of Sandwich, IL and their six children and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Rolande Gottlieb Kuntz of Newark, IL; and his brother, David (Sally) Kuntz of Glen Ellyn, IL. His surviving siblings are Gary Kuntz of Morris, IL, Jane (Anthony) Trotto of Wood Dale, IL, and Janice (Ted) Gill of Monticello, IL. He is survived by numerous nieces/nephews and great-nieces/nephews.

Prior to his graduation from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale with a BS in Agriculture, he served in the United States Army. He received a MS in Education from the University of Illinois and an associate’s degree in Horticulture from Kishwaukee College. He was a Master Gardener. Throughout his career, he was a high school teacher, farmer, and property manager. He had a strong interest in agriculture and loved to visit with family and friends.

Memorials may be directed to Sanders County, Montana 4H