James "Durk" J. Durkee Jr.

James J. “Durk” Durkee Jr, 54, of the town of Cassel, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at his home surrounded by family.

He was born on December 4, 1969 in Wausau to the late James Sr and Ethel (Stange) Durkee.  James graduated from Edgar High School in 1988.  He later married the love of his life Dorinda Bruner on September 2, 1995 at St. John Lutheran Church - High Steeple.

James enjoyed working with his hands and art.  That enjoyment led to his career as an assembler of windows for many years and also his love of woodworking.  James enjoyed being outside, conversations around a bonfire, good football game, deer hunting, taking the four-wheelers out, and camping with family and friends.  He also loved playing card games when he was with family and friends.  He will be remembered for his sense of humor and his comments from the “peanut gallery.” He loved all in his life deeply.

Survivors include his wife, Dorinda; sister, Ronda Durkee (Bryan Kramp); nieces, Isabelle Kramp, Tammy (Rory) Volm and Jamie (Jason) Adamski; great-nephews and nieces, Samantha Bruner, Eric Schmidt, Naomi Volm, Mary Volm, Jenna Adamski, and Nicholas Adamski; great-great-niece, Aubree Klimpke, Godmother, Clara Robl; close friends, Larry Block and Tim Manecke; furry friend, Roxy; and many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr and Ethel; father and mother-in-law, Jack and Neoma (McCarthy) Bruner; maternal grandparents, John and Erma Stange; paternal grandparents, Don Durkee and Blanche Sandoval; brothers-in-laws, James, Michael, and Charles Bruner; sister-in-law, Pam Dhein; Godparents, David and Mary Durkee; cousins, Michael and Richard Wendtland; infant cousin, Susie Wickman and a cousin-in-law, Boyd Parker.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Lincare for all the years of their healthcare service.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church – High Steeple, 119415 Huckleberry Road, Edgar, with Rev. Michael Mathey officiating.  Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church.  Burial will take place at a later date in Mosinee Cemetery.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.