James Randerson

James Randerson, age 62, passed away at his home on February 18, 2024. James was born on October 25, 1961, in Appleton, to parents Gerald and Helen (Crow) Randerson. He was one of five children born to the couple. He graduated from Xavier High School. Following his youth in Appleton he married and proceeded to have three children with Michelle Berglund. 

Jim was truly “one of a kind” and was the person in the room who always wanted to make people laugh, make people smile, and ultimately help people. He was a master storyteller, and loved to spin a yarn-and often those stories were punctuated by practical jokes. He had an unmistakable laugh that would reverberate around any space he was in.

He was an avid sportsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing at Boundary Lake. He loved to watch all the Wisconsin sports teams but was especially passionate about the Packers. His competitive spirit shone through in his game playing as well as team sports in which he was involved. He taught his kids to play cribbage, loved to play pool (and was a TOTAL pool shark), loved darts and cherished his time playing softball “back in the day.”

Family was also at the top of Jim’s list!  He loved to spend time with his grandkids and kids and could spend hours on the phone talking anyone through anything with regards to hunting or fishing. Taking his kids shining for deer in the Trooper was a lifelong memory all of them hold dear. Memories of weekend adventures and summer holidays up north will forever hold a special place in their hearts and minds. Sitting in the shade, swimming in the lake or simply relaxing on the dock with an adult beverage in hand, and “midnight chicken” are part of all the memories.

His friendships with his coworkers at Presto will attest to both his kind heart and work ethic. In his 30+ years of service he made many good friends.

Jim is survived by his children: Ryan (Donya) Randerson, Jennifer (Rob) Hopfensperger and Stephanie (Matt) Randerson; grandchildren: Raegan, Colton, Knox and Sophia; his canine companion Finley; and siblings: Robert “Lefty” (Barb) Randerson and Mary Bungert; sister-in-law: Linda Randerson, and brother-in-law Tom Wenneman, In addition, he is survived by good friends Pat and Chris Poehls as well as many nieces, nephews, up north friends and so many other wonderful friends-both old and new.

He was preceded in passing by his parents; siblings Gerald “Jerry” Randerson and Sharon Wenneman; and his nephew Brian Wenneman.

A memorial celebration of life will be held on Friday March 1, 2024, at 3:00pm at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior Street. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 12:00pm until the service begins.

Please bring a story to share.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established.