James D. Wadinski

James D. Wadinski Sr., 84, Wausau died unexpectedly Saturday, May 6, 2017 at his home. He was born January 19, 1933 in Milwaukee, son of the late Leslie and Helen (Magrecke) Wadinski. On April 30, 1955, he married Mildred Mykleby at St. Therese Catholic Church, Rothschild. She preceded him in death on July 3, 2012. For more than 40 years Jim worked at American Can/James River in Wausau, retiring as machine oiler. He served as the Treasurer/President of the Paperworkers Union UPIU Local #224, President of the Marathon County Labor Council and also received the "Citizen of the Year" award in 1985. Some of his favorite pastimes including, deer hunting, fishing, and spending time up north at the house in Star Lake, especially with the grandchildren. Jim and Mildred purchased the Star Lake homestead in the 1970's and considered that to be there second home. He also enjoyed cooking and was always providing family and friends with baked goods. He built several homes with family over the years and could repair and make just about anything. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army 11th Armor Calvary Division from 1953 until 1955. He said they had the best job in the Army because everyone liked the guys that cooked. He enjoyed meeting with the remaining members of his unit monthly. Survivors include two sons, James (Carla) Wadinski Jr., Wausau and Michael Wadinski, Wausau, two grandchildren, James (Shannon) Wadinski III and Danielle (Zachery) Hassberg, two great-grandchildren, Lelynd and Charlotte Hassberg, brother-in-law, Andrew Haase, Schofield, sisters-in-laws, Betty Wadinski, Kronenwetter, Phyllis Mykleby, North Carolina and Mary Jane Mykleby, Weston and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and his wife he was preceded in death by siblings, William "Sonny" Wadinski, Leona Haase and Margaret Wadinski. A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at the Wausau Labor Temple, Wausau. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Labor Temple. 318 South 3rd Ave., Wausau. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com