James “Jim” Whitish, age 81, of Fennimore, WI passed away unexpectedly on Monday evening December 12, 2022, at the Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster with his beloved wife Laurie by his side. He was born on March 6, 1941, at the home farm in Wingville Township Grant County, WI. He was united in marriage to Laurie McClusky on January 4, 1961, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore. With this uniting, they were blessed with their three sons.
Jim graduated from Livingston High School. He went to work for Bausch Lumber Company until joining the family business Koschkee Transfer. For 30 years, he served as the terminal manager here in Fennimore. For the past 15 years, Jim drove school bus for the Fennimore School District and loved his time with the kids on his route. In 1989, Jim purchased his hobby farm in Marion Township. Over the years, he and his family have made many special memories there, especially establishing the Marion deer camp. Jim thought the world of his family. He enjoyed supporting his children and then grandchildren at their sporting events, music performances and concerts. He and Laurie loved going on their daily ice cream trips together, traveling to Las Vegas, and spending time with their Birthday Group. Jim especially looked forward to the annual trip to Long Lake. Jim was an awesome husband and father, and a wonderful grandfather. He was always willing to have fun. His dedication to his family, friends, and his infectious smile and unforgettable laugh will be deeply missed.
Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Laurie, of Fennimore, Mark Whitish of Fennimore, Bob (Sherry) Whitish of Barneveld, and Mike (Andrea) Whitish of Dodgeville, seven grandchildren; Brandon Whitish, Danielle (Fiancé Joel Feider) Whitish, Hannah Whitish, Jordyn Whitish, Jeremy Whitish (Fiancé Christine Daniliuc), Hunter (Alyssa) Whitish, and Mia Whitish, Very special sister and brothers-in-laws; Darlene (John) Vogt of Fennimore, Richard (Judy) McClusky of Paris, TN, and Jacque (David) Smith of Montfort, along with many special nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters: Margaret Whitish, Mary (Max) Dersch, Pat (Larry) Collins and his brother Joseph Whitish.
Visitation
Visitation will be held from 3-7:00 P.M. on Friday December 16, 2022, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Hall and from 10:00 A.M until the time of service on Saturday morning.
Funeral Services
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M on Saturday December 17, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore.
Burial Services
Burial to follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery in Fennimore.