Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I worked with Jim at the DNR and had great respect for him. Jim had a way for spinning a good story, especially about his dogs. Jim was highly regarded at the DNR and his legacy lives on throughout Wisconsin's waters and natural areas.
Susan Cook
Milwaukee , WI
Posted: 6/1/2026
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I worked with Jim at the DNR and had great respect for him. Jim had a way for spinning a good story, especially about his dogs. Jim was highly regarded at the DNR and his legacy lives on throughout Wisconsin's waters and natural areas.
Susan Cook
Milwaukee , WI
Posted: 6/1/2026
I have known Jim since 1986. We worked together at The Department of Natural Resources (DNR). We also became friend and did many things outside of the DNR. Jim and I shared many hobbies like hunting, work on our house, fixing cars, etc. I immigrated to the USA in 1977 from Iran and started working at DNR in 1984. Not knowing the way of life in US, Jim was my mentor and supporter in all aspect of life. Jim helped me a lot to find my way. Above all, he looked at me as a human being and a person. He was a kind man and always treated me with respect. I got to know his wife and children, Matt and Molly and became friend with them. I miss him greatly.
Bizhan Zia Sheikholeslami
WAUKESHA, WI
Posted: 6/1/2026
I was the Director of Fisheries in Wisconsin while Jim was one of Five "Regional Directors who carried out our statewide efforts to make Wisconsin fishing as good as it could be. Jim's district, Southeast Wisconsin, had the most people and therefore, more problems. He handled them adroitly and ran a "good shop". At year's end he was always the only one of the five that always ended up under his budget. I believe his horrifying experiences as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam changed him forever. It was obvious he treasured his family. He was a fine man. Lee Kernen
Lee Kernen
DeForest, WI
Posted: 4/29/2026
I knew Jim through the DNR’s Lake Michigan program. A good man with a measured, patient approach to his work and life. A good professional friend.
Bill Horns
Fitchburg, WI
Posted: 4/29/2026
Jim and I started our DNR careers in the 1970's and ended up working out of Delafield. We continued to cross paths and even dove a couple of times together. Always a treat to be around Jim. Use to run into Jim, Karen and family at the Lake Convention in Stevens Point. My sympathy to all, great memories.
Tim Rasman
Green Bay, WI
Posted: 4/9/2026
So sorry for your loss. Enjoy your memories. Jim was such a steady and kind colleague.
Mel Vollbrecht
Madison, WI
Posted: 4/4/2026
Jim was the very first person Brian and I met in our new neighborhood over 20 years ago. He was inviting us to a Lake Dist meeting. It was our first of many meetings and interactions with Jim and Karen.
We have been fortunate in knowing and learning so much from Jim, Karen and Molly.
We miss Jim daily and think of his warm small, gentle demeanor and his willingness to help anyone and everyone.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Karen and the rest of the family during this difficult time. We are here for you.
God bless!
B Psicihulis
Mukwonago, WI
Posted: 3/30/2026
Beautiful obituary! A wonderful person.
Andrea Houseman
Mukwonago, WI
Posted: 3/16/2026
Karen, Matt and Molly: I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Jim was very influential in the development of my career at WDNR.. He was an honest man, a straight shooter and very dedicated to his family and career. My your soul be at peace, and you hunting and fishing the best!
Al Kaas
Cottage Grove, WI
Posted: 3/13/2026
Jim was the kindest, gentlest, best man I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and serving with. So very glad to have been his bunkmate while we learned how to fly helicopters and survive the tremendous daily pressures of the Warrant Officer Flight Training Program. You are already greatly missed.
Gary Reynolds
Saint Johns, FL
Posted: 3/13/2026
Had a lot of fun making music with you, Jim. Heaven will be a happier place with you there.
Ron and Vi Reinert
Mukwonago, WI
Posted: 2/10/2026