Mequon – Passed away unexpectedly on August 25th, 2025.
The son of Anton and Katherine (nee Boden) Kasum, Jim was born in Milwaukee on September 2nd, 1943. Jim was a lifelong Wisconsinite, graduating from Pulaski High School and earning his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Mathematics at UW-Milwaukee.
Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Margaret “Duffy” (nee Pahler), his daughters Kelly (Ted Ressel), Kathleen, and Christine (Andrew Sexton) and grandchildren Cooper and Madeline Ressel and Zoe, Hazel, and Sylvie Sexton, numerous extended family and many wonderful friends.
Family was Jim’s greatest treasure and joy. He loved being a Dad to his 3 daughters and then Papa to his grandchildren and sons-in-law.
He was an enthusiastic, dedicated and highly regarded university professor for decades, teaching at both Cardinal Stritch University and, at his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He received numerous teaching awards and accolades, achieving the status of Professor Emeritus at both universities.
Jim enjoyed exploring libraries, museums and watching Jeopardy. He loved cheering on the Packers and the Brewers. He supported multiple organizations through his volunteer activities, especially the Wisconsin Donor Network. He was ever grateful for receiving a kidney transplant in 2002, donated by a young woman involved in a fatal car accident.
Jim’s Celebration of Life will be Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at Lumen Christi Catholic Church in Mequon WI 53092. Visitation at the church is at 10AM followed by Mass at 11AM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider becoming an organ donor or supporting the Wisconsin Donor Network with a contribution in Jim’s name to Versiti or to a charity of your choice.