James “Jim” Ziegler, born in 1947, formerly of Rock Island, Illinois, and later a longtime resident of Loveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, and devotion to his family, friends, and community.

Jim was raised in Rock Island in the Quad Cities along the Mississippi River, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a lasting love for the outdoors. He was deeply committed to his faith and served as deacon for many years at Broadway Presbyterian Church.

A lifelong learner with a passion for technology and engineering, Jim earned an Associate of Applied Science in Electronics Technology from Black Hawk College in 1968 and later a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Electronic Technology from Bradley University in 1971.

After college, Jim spent two years teaching industrial arts, drafting, woodworking, and physical education at Franklin Middle School, where he enjoyed sharing practical skills and encouraging young students.

He later began a long career with Montgomery Elevator Company in Moline, Illinois, where he spent more than two decades in leadership roles in production, materials management, and operations. Known for his technical knowledge and practical leadership, he eventually served in senior manufacturing and purchasing positions, including Acting Division Manager.

After Montgomery Elevator was acquired by KONE in the mid-1990s, Jim relocated to southwest Ohio to continue his career in manufacturing and procurement leadership. He later held management roles with Fujitec America in Lebanon, Ohio, American Laundry Machinery in Cincinnati, and served as Director of Strategic Procurement with Topline in Hamilton, Ohio. Throughout his career, he was respected for his integrity, problem-solving ability, and steady leadership.

Outside of work, Jim had a variety of interests including woodworking for home improvement projects. He found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing, appreciating the quiet moments on the water as much as the catch. He was also deeply committed to conservation and outdoor education. Jim volunteered for many years teaching hunter education courses, helping new hunters learn safe and ethical practices. In recognition of his dedication, he was honored by the Governors of Iowa and Illinois for his many years of service. He also helped establish the Quad City Conservation Alliance (QCCA), supporting conservation and responsible outdoor stewardship in the region. Jim had a warm sense of humor and enjoyed life's simple pleasures, including time with family and friends and the occasional Dairy Queen ice cream cone.

Jim will be remembered as a thoughtful engineer, conservation enthusiast, and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose kindness and generosity touched many lives.

His memory will live on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely to those around him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jean Virginia Ziegler and Lloyd Edward Ziegler.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Constance Ziegler. They married in December 1972; his children, Todd (and wife Cristin), Corey, and Carrie, and grandchildren, Will and Ellen Ziegler, who brought him great pride and joy.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, 3030 7th Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Cordova Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati, the Quad City Conservation Alliance, or the Rock Island Conservation Club in Jim's memory.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.wheelanpressly.com.