James R. Lauer

James R. Lauer, age 72, passed away December 28, 2021 after complications from heart surgery.  Jim was born January 22, 1949 to the late Robert and Myrtle (Reinert) Lauer.  He graduated from Appleton West High School.  He enlisted in the U.S.Army and served in Vietnam.  He was an active member of the American Legion Post 38.
He worked as a carpenter his entire life until his retirement in 2010. He was a proud member of the Carpenters Union 955.

He loved to garden and fish. He’ll miss his trips to Jefferson park to meet with his fishing friends and lunch with  the hunting buddies.

He was a biker who enjoyed many rides on his Harley with his biker buddies through the years. He was involved in the motorcycle club Abate.  He lived to ride.

He had an infectious laugh. His grandkids affectionately called him “Grandpa Whiskers.”

He is survived by his children, retired Naval Chief Jeremy Lauer ( Colleen), Jennifer (Mike) Hart; grandkids, Courtney, Nick, Charlie, Hannah and Tanner; his girlfriend of 27 years, Rose Schmidlkofer and her children: Rob (Colleen), Todd (Jen) and Brad ( Denise);   grandkids, Brandon, Nicole, Kaitlyn and Megan; 2 great-grandchildren; siblings, Tom (Kay), Jean (Mark), Bill (Karen) and Karen (Steve); a sister-in-law, Deb.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bob.

Family and friends may visit from 10 AM – 12 PM on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St. Appleton, WI 54911.  Military Honors will follow the Visitation.  Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery, Appleton, WI.

“Dad was a true patriot and loved his country.  We will all remember Dad’s  advice; feed the birds, go fishing, shake a hand, thank a vet, stand for the flag, and buy American-made.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.” -His children.

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