James (Jim) P. Kull, 74, of Hillsboro, died on Thursday, May 7, 2020, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO, after a courageous battle with leukemia.
Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at Grace Cemetery in Strasburg, with Pastor Fred Kraemer officiating. Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield is assisting with arrangements.
Mr. Kull was born on June 15, 1945, in Shelbyville, to Merl M. Kull and Grace O. (Ruff) Kull. He grew up in Strasburg, graduating from Stewardson-Stras High School in 1963.
Mr. Kull later attended Eastern Illinois University, where he obtained a degree in education in 1967, and later a master’s degree. He met his wife, Toni Tilmans, while attending Eastern Illinois University. They were married on May 28, 1967, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Charleston.
Mr. Kull taught industrial arts and building trades at Hillsboro High School for 33 years. He and Terry Page designed and constructed several homes, during this time. Mr. Kull went on to renovate older homes, which later became rental opportunities.
Mr. Kull also operated Kull Machining, selling lathe plates to Grizzly Tools and to lathe enthusiasts all over the globe. He enjoyed refurbishing large machinery and Triumph Sport’s cars (TR-3s). Mr. Kull was skilled at designing and crafting in both metal and wood, and would often surprise grandchildren with special gifts he made.
Mr. and Mrs. Kull loved traveling. Their first adventures were driving trips to Alaska. They embarked on trips throughout most of the United States, Canada and 35 countries overseas. In addition to the scenic memories, many new friendships were developed.
Mr. Kull was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Litchfield and served two terms on the Zion Lutheran School Board. In past years he sang in the church choir. Jim was also a charter member of the Hillsboro Sertoma Club.
Mr. Kull is survived by his wife of 52 years; son, David Kull (Jill) of Davenport, IA; daughters, Kim Fanelli (Rich) of Mattoon and Susan Shelton (Tom) of Litchfield; seven grandchildren, Tyler Kull, Collin Kull, Conner Kull, Vince Fanelli, Nick Fanelli, Abby Shelton and Grant Shelton; and one sister Arlene (Kull) Quast of Valdosta, GA.
Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or Hillsboro Public Library. Condolences may be left online at www.plummerfuneralservices.com.
