James A. Duenkel (1956 - 2024)

James Arthur Duenkel, 67, of Barton, passed away peacefully at The Kathy Hospice in West Bend on July 1, 2024.

Jim was born at St. Joseph's Hospital in West Bend on November 27, 1956 to Arthur Jr. and Myrtle Duenkel.  Though born in West Bend, Jim was a true Barton boy, always reminiscing about his childhood and sharing his hometown pride with his family.  He attended St.Mary's Catholic School, Silverbrook Middle School, and West Bend East High School.  Later, he joined the U.S. Navy and served as an Electrical / Mechanical Equipment Repairman.  On March 26, 1977, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lisa Heller.  Jim had a successful career as a Service Manager at Hi-Ranger in Waukesha and later at Cooley's International in Random Lake.



Jim most enjoyed spending time with his family.   He loved going fishing and hiking, hosting Packers parties, introducing his kids to the original Star Wars trilogy, reading Louis L'Amour books, watching John Wayne movies, and listening to country and classic rock music.

Those Jim leaves behind to cherish his memory include wife Mary; their children Jessica (Shawn) Schmidt of West Bend, Aaron (Diana) Duenkel of Iron Ridge, Chance (Samantha) Duenkel of Neenah; and grandchildren Isabella Schmidt and Jackson and Libby Duenkel.  He is further survived by siblings June Duenkel, Betty (Vince) Janz, Ray Duenkel, and Rich Duenkel; siblings-in-law Joe (Pam) Heller, Bruce (Nancy) Heller, Rick (Lauren) Heller, and Tracy (Tom) Klesper; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Arthur Jr. and Myrtle; an infant brother William; parents-in-law, James and Georgianna Heller; and sister-in-law, Debbie Duenkel.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary's sister Tracy; Jim's brother Ray; family friend / "faux sister" Pam Krause; Kim and Sue from BrightStar Care; the staff at the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center; and the teams at Froedtert West Bend ICU and The Kathy Hospice.

Instead of a funeral, Jim requested a celebration of life, which will be planned at a later date.  To honor Jim, please consider a donation to the Wisconsin Chapter of the National MS Society: https://tinyurl.com/jimduenkel