James “Jim” Leonard Hieronimus was born September 26, 1942 in Wausau to the late Ervin and Elsie (Graveen) Hieronimus. He was a 1960 graduate of Wausau High School. Following school, Jim served in the US Army for 2 years. Jim married Carol Zernicke on September 30, 1967 at Grace Lutheran Church in the Town of Maine. He worked for Kraft Foods for over 35 years in shipping and maintenance before retiring. He was a good father, always providing for his family and being there for his daughters when they needed him. Jim was overjoyed with the addition of his grandchildren, especially his best bud, Matt. In May 1997, Jim met his fiancé, Barb Cody.
Jim always loved spending time outdoors. Whether it was at home doing meticulous yard work or out camping, fishing and hunting. In his free time, Jim loved playing cards, especially Sheepshead and Cribbage, NASCAR and an avid bowler. Jim was a lifelong dedicated Milwaukee Brewers fan. Some of his favorite pastimes in later years were going on casino trips or up to Rhinelander with Barb to visit family. On September 11, 2010, Jim lost his courageous battle with cancer at Saint Joseph’s Hospital, Marshfield.
Jim is survived by his beloved daughters, Tammy (Bryan) Behnke of Weston and Terra (LeRoy) LaFave of Schofield; fiancé of 13 years, Barb Cody; grandchildren, Matthew Hieronimus, Nicholas, Dakota and Peyton Behnke, Nicole and Joshua LaFave; great-granddaughter, Morgan LaFave; ex-wife, Carol (Phil) Olson; twin sister, Jean (Joe) Ginzinger; brother, Don (Lyn) Hieronimus; sister-in-law, Sharlene Hieronimus; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his brother, Roger.
Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, September 16, 2010 at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church. Reverend Thomas Hoelter will be officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday at Helke Funeral Home, Wausau, resuming on Thursday at the church at 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Burial will be at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Town of Stettin. You may sign our family guest book at www.helke.com.
The family would like to thank Dr. Islaam, Dr. Claessens and the staff of Ministry Health for their loving care and support.