James Jumbeck

JAMES JOHN JUMBECK

James John Jumbeck, 78, of Fountain City, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 11, after an extended illness.

Jim was born on July 6, 1938 in Winona, MN, to James and Cecelia (Wantoch) Jumbeck.  After high school, he served in the US Air Force as an electrical mechanic stationed in Japan.

Jim devoted his life to supporting his family.  He raised seven children with his beloved wife, Rita (Bohlinger), whom he married June 15, 1963.  His Catholic faith and love for his family directed his life's work.  Jim was an incredible listener, thinker and problem solver.  Many a friend or neighbor, trusting his judgment, came to him for help or guidance as his motto was, “use me while I'm here.”  Jim left an impression by inspiring people to be kinder, think more critically, explore possibilities and take risks.  He called a spade a spade and was a true man of his word.  He always welcomed a good conversation and could spin a lively tale.  Jim was a proud Packer fan despite his family's divided loyalties and had a deep love for his draft horses.

Jim took great pride in being involved in various service organizations, giving him an opportunity to share his talents while helping to support and enrich his community.  He was a Fourth-Degree Knight and served as Grand Knight for Council 11832.  His membership in the Old Time Farm Fest Lions, FFA Alumni and school board brought him tremendous fulfillment.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sister Gretchen Jumbeck OSB.  He is survived by his loving wife, Rita and their seven children, Christine, Fountain City, Barb (Jeff) Schwanke, Teresa Beasley, Winona, MN, Jim (Anne) Jumbeck, Galesville, WI, Ed (Stacey) Jumbeck, George, IA, Bob (Tanya) Jumbeck, Alma, WI and Gerri (fiancée Andy Gudenschwager), Reedsburg, WI.  He was an incredible role model for and dearly loved his fourteen grandchildren: Casey and Caleb Schwanke, Trent Beasley, Taylor, Landon, Micah, Noah, Jacob, Joshua, Lance, Lucy, Wil, Clare and Ty Jumbeck.  He is further survived by his brother David (Rosemary), Medford, OR, brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, other relatives and a multitude of friends.

A visitation will be held honoring Jim at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 201 Mankato Avenue, Winona, MN on Friday, February 17, from 4 – 8 PM, where the Knights of Columbus will lead the recitation of the Most Holy Rosary at 7:30 PM.  Visitation will also be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2 North Hill Street, in Fountain City, WI on Saturday, February 18, from 9:30 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM.  The Reverend Brian Jazdzewski will officiate.

Following the luncheon at church, Jim will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Winona.  The VFW Cochrane-Buffalo City Post 10406 will provide military honors at the cemetery.

Memorials and donations may be made to the Gift of Life Transplant House, Rochester, MN.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Jim’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.