James Leimkuehler

James Richard Leimkuehler passed away unexpectedly on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Cape Town, South Africa, at the age of 81. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025 at Breshears Memorial Chapel in Brunswick, MO at 10:00 A.M. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Sunday, May 4, 2025 from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Burial will be in Elliott Grove Cemetery in Brunswick, MO.

James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary Lynn (Stanley) Leimkuehler; his son, Christian Leimkuehler, and daughter-in-law, Gina; his daughter, Ashley Anne Spencer-Smith, and son-in-law, Garth; three grandchildren, Marc Leimkuehler, Sofia Leimkuehler, and Caitlyn Spencer-Smith; and his siblings, Carol Radtke, Joyce Blunk, and Keith Leimkuehler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Henry Leimkuehler and Ruth Elizabeth Leimkuehler, and his brother Donald Leimkuehler.

James and Mary Lynn spent many years in Buffalo, New York, where they raised their children and built a life filled with family, friends, and community. James cared deeply for his family and took pride in supporting and encouraging them throughout his life. During that time, he also established his business, MRC Technologies, an engineering firm he built from the ground up.

In 1996, they purchased the Ashlyn House Bed and Breakfast in Brunswick, Missouri, which Mary Lynn operated while James continued to manage his business in Buffalo. After many chapters, they chose to retire to Cape Town to be near their daughter Ashley and her family. They purchased their home in 2018, and James joined full-time in 2023.

Born in Carrollton, Missouri, he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri. He began his career with General Electric in Chicago before relocating to Buffalo. He spoke of his work often and with pride, reflecting on the path he had taken to build something of his own.

James was known for his easy charm and the twinkle in his eye — the kind of warmth that left a lasting impression. As a father, he could fix just about anything, and he had a way of making conversation wherever he went — whether with a neighbor, a waiter, or someone he’d just met. He always had a fix in a crisis, though, as his wife often joked, he might have been the one who got you into it in the first place.

He loved sailing and flying, and any pursuit that suited his mechanical mind. A man of enduring Christian faith, James was active in church communities throughout his life and carried his faith with steadiness, humor, and an open heart.

James will be remembered for his capable hands, curious mind, generous heart, and a smile that made the world feel just a bit more welcoming. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Elliott Grove Cemetery. Donations may be left at or mailed to Breshears Memorial Chapels, 207 W. Broadway, Brunswick, MO 65236.