James H. Bayer

James “Jim” Herbert Bayer, age 78, passed away on February 1, 2019.

Son of the late Catherine and Herbert Bayer, Jim attended St. Mary H.S., Menasha and played on the championship-winning basketball team. He met his future wife, Jeanette, at Lawrence University, and they started their family at the edge of the campus, nestled near the Fox River. Jim was a self-made, successful businessman, who accomplished the goals he set for himself, including taking care of his family, and improving his golf score. Jim started the first girls’ basketball team at St. Joseph’s Elementary School, and coached teams for many years. He enjoyed scuba diving, traveling (if it did not involve sleeping in a tent), playing sheepshead, and challenging his daughters’ suitors in games of one-on-one and five-handed Schafkopf. His July 4th family reunions are remembered fondly. He was a loyal patron of Wilmar’s Chocolates to the end.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Jeanette; children Gina (Bob Mayer) Bayer, Michelle (Darren) Richeson, Hugh (Liz Garvey) Bayer, Cindy (Kevin) Klein, and Rick (Jen) Bayer; grandchildren Jack Richeson, Christian Richeson, Max Bayer, Val Bayer, Brittany Lessmiller, Heather Klein, Cassie Klein, Hunter Mayer, Lucas Bayer, and Micah Bayer; great grandchildren Connor, Emmalyn, and Zayden; sisters Connie (Tim) Friesen and Ellen (Andrea) Camozzi; godchild Gina Camozzi; nephews Shane Swamer and Michael Konitzer; niece Mary Konitzer, and many other family and friends.

A visitation for Jim will be held from 4 - 6 PM at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street, Appleton on Thursday, February 7, followed by a memorial service at 6 PM.

Jim, Jimmy B, JB, Dad, Poppy - you touched so many. You showed us the value of hard work and self-discipline. We love and miss you dearly.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.