Albert James Gripentrog "Jim", age 78, of West Bend, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on September 4, 2015. He was born on September 15, 1936 in Unity, WI to Rheinhart and Mildred (nee Shelley) Gripentrog. Jim served in the Army from 1955-1957 and then in the Marines from 1957-1961. He married Beatrice "Bea" (nee Herman) on January 20, 1962 in Marshfield, WI. Jim was a fireman and a cheese maker in Marshfield. Jim was offered a position with Level Valley Dairy (Schreiber Foods) where he remained until his retirement. After his retirement, Jim worked in the receiving department of St. Vincent De Paul.

Jim was a man to remember. He always left a lasting impression on those who meet him. Above all, family was the most important to him.

Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Beatrice; children Andrea (Mark) Kafura, Dennis (Sandi) Gripentrog, Nick (Kelly) Gripentrog; grandchildren Andrew (Wendy) Kafura, Ben (Dee) Kafura, Robert (Jessica) Gripentrog, Brittany (Nic) Luther, Kristopher Gripentrog, Halle, Avery, Macy, Regie, Nicolas and Leah Gripentrog; great-grandchildren Maddox and Benson Gripentrog, Paxton Kafura and Landon Luther; sisters Violet "Toots", LaVon (John), Karen, Beth, Mary Jo, Debbie; brothers Dale (DaleAnn), Lyle (Pam) and Gary. Jim is further survived by many nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends. Jim is preceded in death by his parents; grandson Brian James Gripentrog; sisters Frances (Phillip) Hilda Smith, Rachel Marie Bigelow; brothers Robert Allen Gripentrog and Jon David Gripentrog; five great nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service celebrating Jim's Life will be held at Phillip Funeral Home (1420 W. Paradise Drive West Bend, WI 53095) on Wednesday September 9, 2015 at 2:00 PM with Kristopher Gripentrog officiating. Visitation will be held at the Phillip Funeral Home from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. Following the service Interment and Military Honors will take place at Washington County Memorial Park.

Jim's family would like to express their thanks and gratefulness to Horizon Homecare, Froedtert Medical College and the St. Joseph's Hospital for all the care and compassion they provide Jim.