James 'Jim' H. King

Surrounded by his loving family, James “Jim” H. King, age 89, passed away Saturday, May 5, 2012, at his residence. Jim was born in Racine, November 3, 1922, son of the late Harry and Ruth (Nee: Gunderson) King.

During World War II Jim proudly served in the United States Army for thirty-four months, serving ten months in the European Theatre Operations. On January 15, 1944, in Houston, Texas, he was united in marriage to Catharine V. Steiner, who preceded him in death on October 31, 1996. He was employed by Progressive Dairy for twenty- eight years and then by Gateway for fifteen years. Jim was a surrogate grandpa to all and was affectionately known as “Pappy.” He was a loving and devoted husband, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his children, Nancy (Michael) Porter of Springfield, MO, Carol (Richard) Smith, Peggy Hantschel, all of Racine; his daughter-in-law, Debbie King of Oak Creek; his grandchildren, Timothy (Jessica) Smith, David Smith, Steven (Emily) Hantschel, Amy Hantschel, Julie Hantschel, Ben King, Perry King, Jenni (Adam) Brophy, Joey Orthman; his three great-grandchildren, Kaelin, Payton and Micah; sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Stan) Rogers, Joan Steiner, all of Arlington Heights, IL; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Brian; son-in-law, Robert “Little Buddy” Hantschel; two sisters, Jean Klatt and Betty Miller.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 10:30 a.m. Memorials to Christ the King Lutheran Church or to St. Catherine’s High School have been suggested. In Jim’s words “Please do not send any flowers. I will not be able to see or smell them.”

A very special thank you to Dr. Zablotney and his caregivers who allowed him to remain in his home: Becky, Jamee, and Joan for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine   (262) 634-7888