James P. Pankratz

Pankratz, James P.
“Jim” “Papa”
Appleton

Age 74, passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, April 24, 2010. He was born in Cato, WI on July 16, 1935, the son of the late Frank and Christina (Jirik) Pankratz. Jim proudly served his country for four years in the United States Air Force. In 1959, he married his best friend and sweetheart, Georgianna (Georgie) Mader. They enjoyed 50 years together. They were blessed with two daughters whom he loved and cherished: Wendy Hall and Chris (Paul) Rammer. Jim worked at Miller Electric for 38 years before he retired and then worked part-time at E.I.S. for many years. Jim was a member of the Quarter Century's Club at Miller Electric. He attended St. Pius X Catholic Church where he was an usher and commentator. Jim enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading, bowling, working with cars. He loved spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren's activities.

Jim is survived by his wife, Georgie; daughters: Wendy Hall and Chris (Paul) Rammer: eight precious grandchildren: Jessica (Kevin) Hohnberger, David (Toni) Hall, Thomas Hall and special friend, Abbie; and Matthew, Melissa, Nicole, Jamie, and Stephanie Rammer; seven great-grandchildren: Caylee, Isaiah, Tyler, Camey, Savannah, Zachary, and Morgan; mother-in-law, Ceil Mader; sister, Esther Seaver; sisters and brothers-in-law: Barbara Pankratz, Julia Pankratz, Julia “Judy” (Jim) Ebben, Louie (Debbie) Mader, and Leanne Mader; godchildren: Bob Pankratz, Jessica Hall, Melissa Rammer, Camey Hall, and Amy Davis; and many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Jerome, Leo, and Russell Pankratz; father-in-law, Charles Mader; sisters-in-law: Alice Pankratz and Jan Mader; brothers-in-law: Chuck “Skip” Mader and Gordon Seaver.

The funeral liturgy will be at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, at ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH, 500 W. Marquette St., Appleton, with Fr. Fr. Thomas J. Farrell officiating. Friends will be received at the church on Tuesday from 3:30 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Appleton.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Phillips, Dr. Swanson, Mary Jo, Amy Hein, and all of the Theda Care at Home care takers; especially our very special nurse angel, Amy Ambrosius; Hospice volunteer, Bob Des Jardin; and to our great and helpful neighbors: Chuck and Jackie Luehring, Dan Sullivan, and Dale and Brenda Stalewski.

During this nine year journey, Jim was constantly encouraged and supported by family and friends. What a blessing all of you were! Jim traveled through his journey with dignity, honor, and humor and without a complaint. He was an inspiration to all who knew him and he touched so many of our lives during his time on earth. Thank you to our wonderful family and friends who have been so helpful and supportive during this time. We appreciated every note written, phone call, meals prepared, and all your prayers, love and visits.

In lieu of flowers, memorial funds in Jim's name are being established for Theda Care Hospice and American Cancer Society.

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 North Superior Street
Appleton, WI 54911
(920) 739-1231