James I. Stahl

James I. “Jim” Stahl, 91, of Wyoming, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Apostolic Christian Skylines in Peoria. Born on January 11, 1935, in Princeville to Amos and Laura (Ehnle) Stahl, Jim lived a life marked by quiet dedication to his family business, deep devotion to his loved ones, and a steadfast Catholic faith.

Jim attended Wyoming Grade School and Wyoming High School, where he participated in school plays and played football. It was during those years that he met the love of his life, Evelyn Fulton. They married on September 28, 1957, at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Wyoming. After attending Western Illinois University for two years, he returned to Wyoming to work alongside his father at Stahl Lumber Company, later known as Amos Stahl General Contractors and Stahl Ready-Mixed Concrete. A talented draftsman and skilled carpenter, Jim designed and built single-family homes, funeral homes, and livestock buildings. He owned and operated Stahl Lumber Company for many years, and the business continues today. Even in July 2024, at the age of 89, he remained actively involved, running errands and helping with small tasks.

Above all, Jim was a devoted husband and father. He and Evie cherished their annual winter trips to Florida and frequently traveled to support their grandchildren at school events. He took great joy in watching his family grow with the arrival of great-grandchildren. His faith remained central to his life, and he was grateful for every blessing he received.

Jim is survived by his wife, Evelyn; son Terry (Deana) Stahl of Princeville and his children, Kenneth J. (Jenna) and Heath Michael (Jessica); daughter Laurie (Michael) DeSchepper of Dixon and her children, Larissa Frantz and Kelsey (Andrew) Sarver; daughter Jacqueline (Kenneth) Hofer of Washington and her children, Joshua (Brittany) Hofer, Jordyn (Michael) Ernst, Kendal Hofer (Kathrin Underwood), and Kody Hofer; eight great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Lucas, Addison, Kinsley, Alijah, Amelia, Emersyn, and Ruth; one sister, Joanne Holman of Champaign; and two brothers, Melvin (Corinne) Stahl of Galva and George “Mike” (Patricia) Stahl of Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Delbert Holman.