James A. Siewert

James "Jim" A. Siewert 79, 228 N. 10th Avenue, Wausau died Tuesday, March 4, 2008 under the care of Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born October 16, 1928 in Wausau, son of the late Arthur and Meta (Ohm) Siewert. On October 1, 1949 he married Joyce Dahlke at Holy Name Catholic Church, Wausau. She survives. Jim was born into a family with a sister (Ruth Peterson) and three brothers (Art Jr., John & Frank). Like his older brothers he distinguished himself as an outstanding Wausau High School athlete. He culminated his high school career in 1946 by being named as an All-State quarterback on one of the many undefeated football teams coached by the legendary Win Brockmeyer. Brockmeyer once commented that '...in my mind, he was the best quarterback I have had in fifteen years of coaching...' He was also a Wisconsin Valley All-Conference basketball player and was named the most outstanding all around athlete in the valley. After his high school playing days he became an avid golfer playing many rounds with his brothers and friends on the links at the American Legion and, of course, having a beer or two. For many years he cheered the Packers on, deciding to retire the same day Brett Favre did. Jim began his work career as a route salesman for the Clean Towel Service. He worked his way up to branch /sales manager of FW Means & Co. (Aramark) retiring after 42 years in 1989. In retirement he spent much time following the exploits of his grandchildren becoming their beloved 'Papa.' They loved listening to his stories, especially, his golfing misadventures. Survivors, besides his wife Joyce, include his children, Jerry (Sandy) Siewert, Patte (Jerry) Lewis and Scott (Deb) Siewert, all of Wausau; nine grandchildren, Joe, Jackie and Melissa Siewert, Mandy Lewis and April (Josh) Wanish and Adam, Luke, Mitchell and Katie Siewert; and many nieces and nephews. The funeral mass will be celebrated 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 at The Church of St. Anne, Wausau. The Rev. Steven Brice will preside. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau. Friends may call on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services all at the church. The family extends special thanks to the staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for the care and comfort they provided Jim and family. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.