Dr. James F. Kadlec

It is with sad and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. James (Jim) Francis Kadlec. Dr. Kadlec passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on December 27, 2025

Jim was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, on September 17, 1940, to Dr. George and Victoria (Talsky) Kadlec. He married Constance Belli on October 3, 1964, in Greendale, Wisconsin. Connie preceded him in death on August 3, 2001.

Jim was a proud drummer in the First Elk’s Boy Scout Drum and Bugle Corps from 1952–1953. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 1958, where he was among the first students to represent Aquinas at the National Science Fair with research on fluoride toothpaste. He attended the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse for two years before completing four years at Marquette University Dental School, graduating in 1964.

Following dental school, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas, where he attained the rank of Captain. He received a Certificate of Appreciation for Noteworthy Performance of Duty from General Tomes, USAF SAC Surgeon. Jim returned to La Crosse in 1966, where he practiced dentistry for 44 years, retiring in November 2008.

Jim was an active member of Mary Mother of the Church Parish since 1966. He was a member of the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the La Crosse Dental Society, where he also served as past president. Jim was a member of American Legion Post 52, Catholic Sokol’s, and enjoyed golfing and bowling. He was a charter member of the Woods and Meadows Pheasant Preserve for 26 years and enjoyed fishing trips to Canada.

Jim was a kind and generous man who helped many individuals both through his dental practice and beyond. Many gifts and acts of service were given quietly, without recognition—he was truly someone who preferred to work behind the scenes.

Jim is survived by two sons: Donald (Suzanne) Kadlec of Midland, Michigan, and their children Mason (Jaclyn), Ben (Lauren), Kelly, Megan (Sarah Heath) Cottington; and Tony Cottington. Timothy (Lori) Kadlec of La Crescent, MN and their children Ashley Brion, Amy (Ryan) Jore, Jena (Jonathan) Juarez, and Zachary (Carly). He is also survived by 13 great-grandchildren. Since 2013, Jim enjoyed the love and friendship of a very special person, Carol (Merfeld) Tanke. He was welcomed into her family and loved by Carol’s children and grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Connie; his parents; and his infant brother, Robert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Mary Mother of the Church or the Gundersen Medical Foundation.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Mary Mother of the Church with burial in the St. Joseph Mausoleum at the Catholic Cemetery. Father Brian D. Konopa will officiate. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of services.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to St. Croix Hospice team and the staff at Bethany St. Joseph for the compassionate care they provided to Jim.