James Pagel

James (Jim) Richard Pagel, 79 of Rothschild, passed away on December 9, 2024. He was born on February 20, 1945 in Stevens Point to Emil and Harriet (Krembs) Pagel. Jim was a 1963 graduate of P.J. Jacob's High School where he enjoyed wrestling, hunting and fishing.

Jim spent his career working in construction as a carpenter with Chuck Belke then as a project manager for AP Wisconsin and Ghidorzi Construction where he made many friendships he cherished.

Jim's life was a testament to hard work. As a skilled carpenter, he was a great resource to many and always willing to assist those in need. He was a gentle soul and a quiet observer of life, bringing laughs and joy to the simplest of moments. He enjoyed bow and gun hunting, carp fishing, and whittling wood into walking sticks. He loved his time spent at the family cabin in Mercer and enjoyed any time in the outdoors.

He had a special bond with his cat Bogey who was his "sweetie" and his sidekick for the past 12 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Barb; his daughters Carrie (Dean) Raasch, Jill (Gary) Villnow, son James (Bethany) Pagel, grandchildren Derek Stevens (fiancée Brooke Baravetto), Maxwell (Ashley) Villnow, Benjamin Villow, Ellie Villnow, Brynn Pagel, Jordan Pagel, Kaeli Raasch and Kort Raasch. He is further survived by his brother Kurt Pagel, sister Ann Cragg, brother and sister in laws, Gretchen (Denny) Sampson, Betsy (Tim) Siegel, Pete (Sahm) Straub, Teresa (Joe) Gerg, Bill (Renee) Straub, Sue Straub and many nieces, nephews and friends.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 from 10am to 12pm at Brainard Funeral Home - Everest Chapel, 5712 Memorial Ct., Weston, WI 54476.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care of Jim.