James Walter Lindemann, age 88, went to be with Jesus on May 1, 2026, at Cedar Community. He was born on June 23, 1937, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Henry and Amanda Lindemann.
At a young age, James and his family moved to northern Wisconsin, where he was raised on the family farm on Pennington Road near Ogema. He graduated from Prentice High School in 1957 and entered the National Guard shortly thereafter. Following his service, he moved to Milwaukee and worked as a foreman for Huff Schmidt Engineering, contributing to the construction of several notable projects, including the Hoan Bridge and the Milwaukee Domes.
In June 1965, James married Hazel Carlson, and together they raised four children in the West Bend area. In 1979, he survived a life-threatening workplace accident that gave him a renewed appreciation for life. With determination and resilience, he overcame many challenges in the years that followed.
James found great joy in the outdoors. He spent decades hunting elk in Idaho with his brother Don and cherished visits with family there. Annual deer hunting trips to northern Wisconsin became a beloved family tradition, with his final hunt taking place in 2025. Known for his generosity, James was always willing to lend a hand, especially on projects requiring his expertise in concrete work. He loved spending time in his garage, where countless ideas took shape and lasting memories were made. Ever resourceful, he was always tinkering and took pride in maintaining his home.
In 2006, James met Carolyn at the Moose Lodge in West Bend, where they were both members. To the delight and surprise of many, they were married on September 6, 2007, in Menominee, Michigan. The couple made their home in Montello, Wisconsin, where they embraced lake life and shared happy years together. They enjoyed traveling, working on puzzles, playing cards at the senior center, and volunteering in their community, including at the local food bank.
James was a devoted husband and a loving father. His life was enriched by reading the Bible, flower gardening, hunting, fishing—including catching a 45-inch Canadian musky on his birthday—playing Sheepshead, shooting pool, traveling, and, above all, spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Carolyn (née Kempf) Wagner; his children, Peter Lindemann, Paul (Marilyn) Lindemann, Matthew Lindemann, and April Perkins; his grandchildren, Patrick Lindemann, Hannah Lindemann, Tristan Perkins, Phoenix Perkins, and Shiloh Perkins; his great-grandchild, Ryan James; and his stepchildren, James (Tina) Wagner, Tracy (Forsell) Gappa, Beth (Michael) Bury, and Melanie (David) Nycz. He is further survived by 10 step-grandchildren, 11 step-great-grandchildren, and many relatives, and friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Amanda Lindemann; his brothers, Don (Mona) and Bill (Rita); his sister, Lucille (Bill) Fields; and his dear friend, Paul Tomasik.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Phillip Funeral Home.