James “Red” Bernard Miculinich, 80, of Oelwein passed away Thursday November 21, 2024. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Friday November 29, 2024 at the Geilenfled-Buehner Funeral Home in Oelwein, and from 10:00-11:00 AM on Saturday November 30, 2024 at the funeral home. Graveside services will then follow at 11:30 AM in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Hazleton.
James Bernard Miculinich was born in Oelwein on July 2, 1944 to parents Albert and Helen (Gerstenberger) Miculinich. Red attended and graduated from Oelwein High School with the class of 1963. Red was called upon to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1967, as he did so honorably. On October 14, 1979 he was united in marriage with Teresa Smith at Zion Lutheran Church in Oelwein. Red was employed with Arnold Motor Supply in Oelwein for many years. He later was employed with O’Reily Auto Parts in Oelwein.
Red leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and a passion for excellence that will be remembered by all who knew him. He was one of knowledge and indelible impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him. Red dedicated his life to his work, where he mastered the art of troubleshooting vehicles and the precision of mixing the perfect paint color. His ability to blend technical skill with genuine care and attention set him apart. His profound mechanical knowledge and expertise in parts and business were not only the foundation of his career but also a gift he passed down to his two sons. Red believed fervently in the importance of work ethic and customer service, values which he also instilled in his children and grandchildren.
Left to celebrate Red’s life are his wife Teresa; his children: Michael (Jennifer) Miculinich of Decorah, Matt (Melissa) Miculinich of Oelwein, and Melinda (Roger) Meirick of Waterloo; his grandchildren: Christopher, Bailey, Morgan, Brayden and Masin; his one brother and two sisters and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother John Miculinich; and his daughter-in-law: Jane Miculinich.