On Wednesday, June 1, 2022, Jesus reached down and called our dad home. James “Jim” Schantz, 86, Dyckesville, was born on April 27, 1936, to the late Gordon and Lucille (Kaufmann) Schantz. Jim was a graduate of Catholic Central High School class of 1954. He proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1957 until his honorable discharge in 1959. Jim attended UW Madison and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and worked many years for WPS before starting Anchor Way Realty with partners. He later worked for Cliff Wall Automotive.
Jim greatly enjoyed his life on the bay including boating and spectacular sunsets. Other interests included cars, woodworking, and major remodeling projects. We will miss his sense of humor as every conversation included entertaining stories, jokes, and puns. Most important to Jim was his faith in the Lord and love of his family. He was passionate about encouraging others to follow Jesus.
Jim will be sadly missed by his children, Mike (Birdie) Schantz, Barb (Mark) Giesler, Dan (Lori) Schantz, Katie (Todd) Ericksrud, Matt (Michelle) Schantz; grandchildren, Andy (special friend Rachel), Aaron (Norma), Joe (Drew), Holly (special friend Braydon) , Matt (Brittany), Nina, Brooke (Dylan), Will, Thomas, Daniel (special friend Olivia), Leah, Luke, Adam and Anna; great grandchildren, Milania, Bailey, and Marlo; former spouse, Shirley, nieces and nephews.
In addition to Jim’s parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Naniot and brother, Loren Schantz.
Visitation for Jim will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 2335 S. Webster Ave., on Thursday, June 9, 2022, from 12:30 p.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Joshua Errer officiating followed by Full Military Honors. Entombment will be at the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum. Online condolences may be expressed at www.prokowall.com.
The family greatly appreciates the compassion shown to Jim by Grace Ann and all his care givers and extends a special thank you to St. Vincent Hospital staff for their kindness and concern on his last day.