James Edward Hawley

Former Neenah resident James E. Hawley – Call me “Jim”

James Edward Hawley, age 86, passed away October 18, 2015, in Neenah, WI. James was born in Neenah on November 6, 1928, to his late parents, Edward & Emily Hawley, and preceded in death by brother, Tom. He attended St. Patrick's elementary and was in the Neenah High School graduating class of 1946. Jim was a decorated member of the Neenah Police Department. He loved his job and proudly served for 35 years before retiring. During those 35 years Jim was also a regular at the Boys & Girls Brigade, volunteering in many capacities. After retiring from the force, Jim enjoyed teaching Drivers Education. Eventually he would travel the country delivering automobiles for Bergstrom Auto. Throughout his life Jim enjoyed helping people. He had a gift for seeing the potential in people and was quick with words of encouragement. Often direct – but always encouraging. His strength, gift for storytelling, love for all things chocolate, Irish songs, and no-complaining get-it-done manner will be cherished and missed deeply. A great man and class act.

Jim is survived by his wife Helen Beard Hawley. He is further survived by sons Pat (Carrie) of Appleton and Ed (Mary Jo) of LaCrosse. He has two beloved grandsons, Kyle (Angela) and Kevin, and two great-grandchildren. Jim is also survived by stepchildren Diane (Bill) Peevy of Port St. Joe, Florida, Susan (Dale) Butler of San Diego, CA, Mark Jeffrey (Paige) Beard of Cincinnati, OH, Timothy (Tinna) Beard of Brentwood, CA, William Beard of Kingwood, TX, and Joseph (Karilynn) Beard of Burnsville, MN. Also, 14 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and all the many friends/family that loved him.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Appleton on Friday, October 23rd at 11:00a.m., with visitation starting at 10a.m. St. Thomas More Church is located at 1810 N. McDonald Street, Appleton, WI 54911.