James J. Smelcer, age 77 of Kenosha, died unexpectedly on Sunday, October 15, 2017 at Aurora Medical Center.

Born in Necedah, WI on May 1, 1940, he was the son of the late Joshua and Alma (Saeger) Smelcer.  He was a graduate of Necedah High School.

From August 6, 1958, until his honorable discharge on April 4, 1962, he served as a Supply Sergeant in the U.S. Army while stationed in Korea.

On July 25, 1970, he was united in marriage to JoAnn Carney.  After 29 years of marriage, JoAnn preceded him in death on September 28, 1999.

For many years, Jim was employed at AMC/Chrysler Corporation.  Most recently, he was employed as a bailiff with the Kenosha County Court System.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Lutheran Church.  For over 49 years, Jim, was a member and former National Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans.  One of the highlights of Jim’s lifetime was attending former President Clinton’s first inauguration and placing a wreath on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in 1993. He was also the past Commander of the P.L.A.V. #34.

He is survived by his sisters, Carol (Richard) Braund of Hustler, WI and JoAnn (Al) Ballering of Eau Claire; his brother, Robert (Sheri) Smelcer of Baraboo; and many loving nieces and nephews.

He is further survived by his three close friends, Donnie Dietman, John Gibbs and Will’s VanDenBergh.