James George Kulbeda Obituary

James (Jim) George Kulbeda, left this world unexpectedly but peacefully on the evening of April 16, 2021 at the age of 70 in Roswell, GA. Jim was born in Chicago, IL on March 29, 1951 and had been living in Roswell, GA for the last 25 years.

He is survived by his only child and daughter Lesley (Jonathan, step-granddaughter Grace) Twitty, his sister Kimberly (Jim) Phad, his nieces- Bridgette O'Connor, Katie Wehri, Jamie Pabich , and his nephew, Michael Phad (and their spouses and families). He was preceded in death by his parents, Marianne and Henry Kulbeda.

Jim was known for his quick wit, business intellect and his mantra of working hard to play hard. After graduating Carthage College in 1973, he started off his career in a chemistry lab when leadership saw his ability to get out of that lab and use his social abilities to excel in the world of chemical sales. While taking a few years to run a golf shop he founded, Jim went on to work his way up and through the world of sales and marketing, achieved his MBA from Roosevelt University and went on to be a successful consultant for PWC and IBM. He published various white paper chemical publications that were well revered and published in the American Chemistry Council. Jim sailed into retirement (literally with his boat) after a 9-year run as the Americas Chemical Practice Leader for IBM Global Business Services.

Jim had such a zest for life; which for him often involved enjoying his 'toys' (boats and cars) golf, travel, great wine, and time with friends and daughter. His deep involvement in the golf world continued as he held position of Commissioner at White Columns Golf Club, golfing at least twice a week year-round. He developed a strong social network of friends through golf and his boating life out in Lake Lanier. Jim was known as the patriarch of the boat dock family and could always throw a great party and grill a great steak. In between boating and golfing, he could be found off- roading in his Jeep, racing his BMW's, and preparing for 'Lesley weeks' when she would come into town to visit. Besides his love for boats, golf and cars, he always put his daughter, Lesley, first. After his initiation of one successful video montage for Lesley's wedding, his creativity bloomed as he went on to produce two more milestone video birthday montages for his sister Kim, and best friend since childhood, Wally. His thoughtfulness, wit and charisma will be greatly missed.

There will be a celebration of life memorial service for Jim within the coming months to take place in both Georgia and Illinois. More information will be provided regarding both of those memorials as soon as available.

Feel free to leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of James George Kulbeda to pay them a last tribute. You may also light a candle in honor of Jim.