James "Jim" Buss

James Joseph Buss, age 71, died Monday, November 15 in his home following a lengthy illness.  

Jim was born April 9, 1950 in Appleton and attended Appleton West High School.  Upon graduation in 1968, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy.  He served 4 years active duty and rejoined the Navy Reserve in 1980 and served 16 years, retiring in 2001.

Jim retired in 2014 from Pierce Manufacturing, where he worked for 39 years in various positions. He met his wife of 17 years, Patricia Buss, in 1999 and they were married on July 26, 2003.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim enjoyed fishing and hunting with his father as a child and continued into his adult years.  He enjoyed all things related to nature, including camping, canoeing, and hiking with Pat.  Jim was responsible and hardworking, warm and friendly with amazing compassion and a great sense of humor. 
He entertained many with his “Grillin’ and Chillin’ posts on social media.  In his later years, Jim built beautiful bird houses which he generously shared with family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia; siblings Patricia Drzewiecki, Robert (Sue) Buss, Appleton and Kay (Gerald) Keberlein, Neenah; a daughter, Heidi Buss; step-children Nora (Peter) Breuer-Grubbs, Appleton and Christopher (Pam) Wilcox, Minneapolis.  He is further survived by grandchildren; Derek Buss Jr., Adelynn Buss, and Vada Buss, Christy Breuer, Jimmy Breuer, Miles Wilcox, nieces and nephews and sisters and brothers in law.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Adeline (Brandes) Buss; his son, Derek James Buss; and sister, Sue Terrell.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 23 at Wichmann’s Funeral Home, Superior Street, Appleton. Visitation will be at 1 pm, followed by the service at 3 pm and a meal at 4 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Arbor Day Foundation