Dodgeville - James Harry Arkebauer, age 72, of Dodgeville, lost his battle against pancreatic cancer May 29, 2015.

He was born to the late Harry and Lucille Arkebauer, March 6, 1943, in Newman, IL. He married Karen Kuhlman Arkebauer on January 2, 1999, and they lived in Gurnee, IL for several years before pursuing their dreams in Dodgeville, WI. Jim retired from a long and loved career from Robert W. Baird in February 2007 where he worked in municipal bond trading and underwriting.

Jim is survived by his wife Karen Arkebauer, his sister Judie Arkebauer Laughter, and his three daughters from his first marriage: Amanda McCumber (Neil), Heidi Peters (Cory), and Heather Vora (Harit). He is also survived by his eight grandchildren: Ruby McCumber, Reese Peters, Lilah Peters, Cleo McCumber, Olivia Vora, Jude Peters, Eleanor Peters, and Caroline Vora.

A lifetime conservationist and nature enthusiast, Jim took great pride in turning a neglected farm into a beautiful sanctuary and being a gentleman farmer. He was the perfect carriage driving partner to Karen and their pony, Dash. Jim was also an active member of Pheasants Forever. He was a proud member of the NRA and enjoyed introducing people to gun safety. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and politics. Jim loved to tell stories about his youth, pole vaulting, playing the trombone, helping build the foundation to the Saint Louis Arch, and singing with the Saint Louis Municipal Opera. He was proud that all three of his daughters were phenomenal mothers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Carbone Cancer Center by phone phone (608-263-2746), by mail (Carbone Cancer Center, Development, 600 Highland Ave K4/658, Madison, WI 53792) or online (uwhealth.org/cancerdonation) or Agrace Hospice by mail (5395 E Cheryl Pkwy Madison, WI 53711).

A Celebration of Jim's Life will be held at a later date.