Obituary of James R. Winegarden

James R. Winegarden, age 69, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 03, 2017 at ThedaCare Medical Center in Waupaca. Memorial service will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 8, 2017 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids. Rev. Jonathan Jenks will officiate. Visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. until the time of services on Sunday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.taylorfuneralhome.net. Jim was born July 11, 1947 in Wisconsin Rapids to William “Bill” and Audrey Winegarden. He grew up in Wisconsin Rapids and graduated from Lincoln High School. After graduation, he served his country in the United States Army in the Vietnam War. Jim was employed as an over the road and local truck driver for Consolidated Papers/Stora Enso. He also worked on the corporate painting crew. Jim was an avid sportsman who loved to hunt and fish. He especially enjoyed his trips to Alaska where he would go clamming, and fishing for halibut and salmon. Jim will always be remembered as a loving father, caring son and helper to all. His giving spirit was an example to all of us who are left behind. Jim is survived by his son, John (Colleen) Winegarden; mother, Audrey (Ken) Bencke; brothers: Dave (Rose) Winegarden, Mike (Sheila) Winegarden, and Mark Winegarden; sisters: Wendy Winegarden, Cathy (Dan) Hughes, Mary (Gordie) Anderson, and Jenny (David) Farley; many nieces and nephews; and many many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill, sister, Jackie, and brother, Bill. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of King Veterans Home for their dedicated care. We love you Jim and will miss your smiling face!