James “Jim” Walenski, age 91 of Allouez, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024 after a brief illness. Jim was born in Green Bay on November 21, 1932 to Edwin Walenski and Mary (McLeod) Strelow. Jim attended St. Willebrord Grade School and Central High School. Jim was employed by Green Bay Packaging and retired after 40 years. He enjoyed attending the yearly dinner celebration to honor the retirees. He was a hard worker and instilled a strong work ethic in his children.
Jim married Donna Mae Herbeck (deceased 2010) in 1952 and they raised 6 children: Vicki (Kevin) Farley of Green Bay, Pamela Morrison of Lake Forest, IL, Wendy Pang of Sturgeon Bay, Cindy (Marty) Pyke of DePere, James (Maggie) Walenski of Green Bay, and Thomas (Ann) of Cecil, WI. He is survived by 12 grandchildren: Andrea (John) Sinkler of Green Bay, Jenna (Dave) Rutowski of Hartford, WI, Henry Morrison (Vesna Dimic)of Chicago, Elizabeth Morrison (Zack Heineman)of Dillon, CO, Riley Dixon (Mike McCorison) of New Franken, TJ (Cassie) Walenski of Roberts, WI, Nicholas (Kayla) Walenski of Peoria, IL, Lauren (Ryan) Lemke, of Milwaukee, Maddie(Justin) Stenz of Milwaukee, Patrick (Anna) Farley, Beloit, Kate (Carlos) Santos, Green Bay, Ross (Katie) Farley, Hobart. Jim is survived by 11 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his step-father, Marvin Strelow (1985), his mother, Mary Strelow (2002), and his son in law, Steven Pang (2008). The dedication of his family allowed him the privilege of staying in his home until his recent hospitalization.
Jim was an avid hunter and sportsman in the 1970’s they bought property in Antigo and built a cabin that serves as a retreat for family till this day. He instilled a love of the outdoors and taught life skills to all that joined him at the cabin. Jim was a Green Bay Packer fan from the days when the team played at City Stadium. When the team transitioned to Lambeau Field, he became a season ticket holder, seats that we all continue to enjoy. Baseball was also a favorite spectator sport on radio or TV, and we could always count on him to know the latest score, pitching drama, and standings of the Milwaukee Brewers. Jim looked forward to breakfast with his buddies every month, it was an important social activity for him and he was honored to be included. Golf was another favorite pastime and Jim participated in multiple golf leagues.
Our family finds solace in the many memories we shared and the lessons he imparted to all of us.
A memorial service will be held at Newcomer-Green Bay Chapel (340 S. Monroe Ave., Green Bay, WI), Monday, June 17, 2024 from 5 to 7 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to Wisconsin Humane Society: wihumane.org, or the charity of your choice, in Jim's name are appreciated.