James R. Abegglen, 77, died Tuesday at Theda Care Hospital in Neenah, WI as a result of a stroke.
He leaves his wife of 50 years, Jean Abegglen; his daughter, Janae (Jay) Sasman; his son, James (Kristen) Abegglen; five grandchildren, Adam (Emily) Abegglen; Jacob (Amanda) Abegglen; Caleb Abegglen; Zachariah Abegglen; Samuel Abegglen; sister-in-law and dear friend, Kathy (Lenny) Stanczyk; sister-in-law, Karen (Norm) Schroeder; other important family members including the following families, Nienas, Cable, Schroeder, Flannery and many more close friends, family and kids who called him their “Papa”. Affectionately called “Papa” and “Uncle Jim”, he was loved by all and will be dearly missed, especially by his constant and faithful companion Rusty.
Born in Milwaukee, WI and raised in Kenosha, the son of John and Ruth Abegglen, he was a lifelong resident of Racine. In his early years, after graduation, Jim served in the Air Force. In 1965, he met his wife, Jean and they were united in marriage on May 7, 1966. After serving in the Air Force, Jim worked at Webster Electric, Danfoss and General Automotive as a purchasing agent. After a brief retirement he went to work as a trainer for Durham School Bus Company. His last day working was May 27, 2016.
For over 35 years, Jim volunteered every Thursday at Community Meals feeding homeless people.
A celebration of life will be held Sunday at Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home 803 Main Street, Racine, WI 53403. Visitation from will be held 12-3 p.m. with service from 3-4 p.m. A luncheon will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family are appreciated.
