James J. Smelcer
May 1, 1940 -
October 15, 2017
US Veteran
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.
Service Info
Funeral Services honoring Jim’s life will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Lutheran Church, 2001 80th St. Interment with full military honors will follow in St. James Cemetery.
Posted by:
Barbara Saunders BakerI am sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He was a fine man and I know many are mourning for him. I remember Jim from Necedah and the parades and celebrations where the military men/women were present. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy to friends, family and all who dearly cherish their memories of him. Barbara Saunders Baker
Posted by:
MaribethI'm so sorry for your loss. Love and hugs.
Posted by:
M. VerdellI would like to extend my sincerest condolences to the Smelcer family during this difficult time of coping with the loss of your loved one. Our loving Heavenly Father never meant for us to suffer this type of pain. That is why he will soon fulfill this promise: " And the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing." 1 Corinthians 15:26. Until then may you continue to draw comfort and strength from Jehovah, family and friends.
Posted by:
DaveMy condolences to the Smelcer Family. I remember Jim coming to our classroom to talk to the students about Veterans Day. That was about 20 years ago and his visit still lives on in my memory! He gave me a PLAV pin, which I was honored to receive.
