James D. Kaiser

Keep Singing...

Obituary

James David “Jim” Kaiser, 79, passed away from heart failure and pancreatic cancer. A longtime resident of Girdwood, Alaska, Jim lived a full and independent life shaped by creativity, service, resilience, and a deep connection to people.

Jim was born on June 29, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois. He was baptized at Ashburn Lutheran Church in 1951 and attended Owen Elementary School. He later attended Bogan High School from 1961 to 1964, where he was active in football, Key Club, and male chorus. His classmates remember him for his humor and easygoing nature, qualities that stayed with him throughout his life.

Following high school, Jim attended Western Illinois University and Wilson Junior College in Chicago. He went on to serve as a VISTA volunteer in New Jersey and Boulder, Colorado, where he also trained other volunteers. During his time in Boulder, he began working at Elysian Stained Glass Studio, discovering the craft that would become his lifelong vocation.

In 1977, Jim moved to Alaska, where he made his home in Girdwood. There, he established his stained glass studio and designed and built his own home. He often said he made a living through his art, a reflection of both his skill and his independence. Over the years, he became known for his work across the state, traveling as an artist-in-residence to rural communities. He taught both students and adults the art of cutting and assembling stained glass, leaving behind not only his work but also the knowledge he shared.

Jim was known for his welcoming nature. He never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel at ease. His kindness, sense of humor, and positive outlook made a lasting impression on the many people he met throughout his life.

Jim would have celebrated 25 years of sobriety this year, a milestone that reflected his strength and commitment. He was a steady and supportive presence in the recovery community, offering encouragement, leadership, and quiet guidance to others on the same path.

He remained active in his community, including his involvement with the Girdwood Fine Arts Camp, where he mentored and encouraged young artists. He valued creativity, self-expression, and the connections that came from sharing those experiences with others. Jim built lasting friendships throughout Alaska and beyond. Though many will remember his art collection, it was the friendships he collected that truly defined his life.

A celebration of life for James David Kaiser will be held on June 29, 2026, in Girdwood, Alaska, in honor of what would have been his 80th birthday. All are invited to come celebrate in true Jim fashion—with a shared meal, stories, cake and companionship.

Gallery

Memory wall

April 13, 2026

I met Mr. Kaiser riding the Glacier Valley Transit. On my way around town we’d often pick up Mr. Kaiser, where we held the same exchange. “Hi Mr. Kaiser, how are you?” I’d say, knowing his response would be “If I was any better, I’d be you.” Then, one day, I was on my way to the laundromall to do my “water chores” with bags full of laundry and my shower kit. I explained to Kaiser my chores, and he said, “Well, I’ve got a washing machine.” And gladly I took him up on his generous offer. I started my laundry, got washed up and ended up sitting at the dining room table for hours. He made me steamed shrimp he acquired from a friend, and served it with a chili sauce concoction of sorts. He told me how to steam halibut with ginger. I learned about his extensive travels in Alaska as I marveled over the museum his house had become over the years. He told me about his life, and I could hardly believe what all he had done. Partially because I knew he had a sense of humor, and partially because it seemed like something from a novel. And there he sat, a kind man making sure I was taken care of on my journey. I wish I had spent more days chatting with Mr. Kaiser. I enjoyed his company and his enduring smile. Keep singing!

Ben Roebuck

April 13, 2026

Jim was my closest friend for nearly 48 years.

Lucian Abernathy

April 13, 2026

Jim was my first friend in recovery when I moved to Girdwood. He made me feel welcome and invited me to his one of his dinners. He always had inspiring words and a kind heart. You are missed.

Danielle Thomas

April 13, 2026

'If he was doing any better he would be me" was always his greeting to me. So many great memories. He Always brought out the best in people no matter where or situation. He is deeply missed. Always remembered

Darby Andrews

April 13, 2026

My favorite thing about Jim was that he saw good in everyone and that everything had worth. I will miss his friendship and the many meals we shared together. I will miss taking people to his house to show off his art collection and taking them to his studio.
Rest in peace, my friend.

Andy Romang

Service