James Furtkamp, age 82, of Lebanon, died Thursday, December 7, 2017, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL. He was born June 10, 1935 in Staunton, IL, the son of the late William and Martha (Werner) Furtkamp. He married Joyce Best September 6, 1958 in Staunton. She preceded him in death April 10, 2016.
He is survived by three children: Douglas (Lisa) Furtkamp of Branson, MO, Darryl Furtkamp of Andover, NH and Deanna (Scott) Weiler of Ashland, VA; seven grandchildren: Mitchell (Jayme), Travis and Tanner Furtkamp, Emily and Mark Weiler and William and Lillian Furtkamp; and one brother, Robert Furtkamp of Zion, IL.
Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Furtkamp; and a sister, Florence Carter.

Mr. Furtkamp (Jim) proudly served his country with the 82nd Airborne Division during the Korean War. He attended the University of Illinois and McKendree University, where he received his teaching degree in 1967. He and Joyce established their home in Lebanon, where he taught and coached athletics for 40 years. Jim spent many years in service to the Lebanon community. In addition to his teaching and coaching, he served as a City Alderman and on the Horner Park Board of Trustees.
Jim is remembered by his family, friends and community for his intellectual curiosity accompanied by a biting wit and an engaging humor. He was a good friend and mentor to many. His regular Horner Park walks with his dogs throughout the day provided him opportunity to engage friends old and new.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 14, 2017 at First United Methodist Church in Lebanon; and from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 15, 2017. A memorial service will be from 11 a.m. – 12 noon at the church on Friday, December 15, 2017.
Mr.Furtkamp’s remains were donated to Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.