James L. Heller, 83, passed away Tuesday October 4, 2016 at his residence. He was born on November 3, 1932 in Oshkosh, WI to Lawrence and Estelle (nee Hill) Heller. Jim graduated from Oshkosh High School with the class of 1951, and soon after joined the US Navy Reserves and also served in the Navy during the Korean War. On September 26, 1953 Jim married Georgianna Otto and began their family. Jim retired from Evinrude Motors company after 32 years of service.
Jim’s hobbies included coin collecting, camping with the grandkids, being a Boy Scout leader, ice fishing, traveling, doing rummage sales at 7 Mile Fair, but especially spending time with his family. Jim was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, KVETS, American Legion Post #36, and VFW Post #1393.
James is survived by his wife Georgianna, his children; Joseph (Pamela), Bruce (Nancy), Mary Lisa (James) Duenkel, Richard (Lauren) and Tracy (Thomas) Klesper, 9 grandchildren; Chelsea and Breanna Heller, Angela and Thomas Heller, Jessica (Shawn) Schmidt, Aaron (Diana) Duenkel, Chance (Samantha) Duenkel, Simon Heller and Trenton Klesper; 3 great grandchildren Kylieanna, Caliya, Ava and a great granddaughter due in December. He is further survived by his sister Suzanne Rosentrater, brothers-in-law Robert and David Otto and his canine buddy Charlie, other relatives and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, step-father Lawrence Eisner, brother-in-law Gary Rosentrater, sisters-in- law Louise and Carol Otto.
Funeral Services will be held 10 am Monday October 10, 2016 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (1044 S Silverbrook Dr.) with Pastor Darin Wiebe officiating. (Please meet at church). Full Military Honors will follow.
Visitation will be held on Sunday October 9 at the Phillip Funeral Home (1420 W Paradise Dr.) from 4-6 pm. Interment will be at Washington County Memorial Park. Memorials to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church are appreciated.