Kutsch

James B. “Jim” Kutsch, 78, of Freeport, joined his high school sweetheart, Joyanne (Jack) Kutsch, in the great beyond on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.

Jim and Joyanne were married on Sept. 26, 1971, and spent 40 years perfecting their own unique version of marital bliss before her passing in 2012. Anyone who knew them well knew theirs was a love story, all their own — one that may not have looked like everyone else’s, but somehow worked perfectly for them. They loved each other, irritated each other, argued with each other and somehow kept choosing each other for four decades.

After 14 years apart, we can only imagine Joyanne’s reaction when she saw Jim coming through those pearly gates. We suspect it was less of a tearful embrace and more along the lines of, “Oh for God’s sake … you again?” Jim undoubtedly had an equally colorful response ready for her. And just like that, after a 14-year intermission, the bickering has officially resumed.

Jim was born Sept. 2, 1948, the son of the late Wilbert “Babe” and Florence (Toy) Kutsch. He was a 1966 graduate of Freeport Area High School. Jim was a proud member of the Teamsters union, spending a number of years behind the wheel as a truck driver. He later worked for Eljer in Ford City until the plant closed and then for JSP in Butler, where he worked until his retirement.

In his younger years, Jim discovered that regular driving simply wasn’t exciting enough. He became involved in off-road racing and was a member of a racing club called The Ghetto Kruizers. He spent many weekends racing through the mud, getting stuck, getting unstuck, breaking things, fixing things and making memories with friends who would remain part of his life for years to come.

Jim also loved bowling and hunting and was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Like any true Steelers fan, he remained loyal regardless of whether the team was giving him something to cheer about or something new to complain about.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Jamie (Ray) Toborkey and Kelly Kutsch; his grandsons, Dylan Toborkey and Brody Kutsch; his niece, Danica Jack; and his nephews, Chuck Matson and Jason Matson; along with the friends and extended family who shared in his life and undoubtedly have a Jim story or two of their own.

In addition to his wife, Joyanne, and his parents, Wilbert “Babe” and Florence Kutsch, Jim was preceded in death by his niece, Rachel Matson.

Jim will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

KUTSCH — There will be no visitation or services for James B. “Jim” Kutsch, who died Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.

REDMOND FUNERAL HOME, Freeport, is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send a condolence visit, www.redmondfuneralhomeinc.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.