Klabunde, James Jay (Jim, Coach, Smiley, Jimmy, Mr. K) Born into Eternal Life while surrounded by his loving family on August 23, 2006 at the age of 74 years after a short but courageous battle with melanoma cancer. Entered this world on September 22, 1931 to Elmer and Marge Klabunde. Loving and devoted husband of Barbara (nee Sigel) for 50 wonderful years. Nurturing father of Brian (Valerie Sauve) Klabunde, Sandra Klabunde, Keith (Paula) Klabunde and Kathy (Mike) Erickson. Respected and cherished grandpa of Dean Klabunde, Lauren Klabunde, James Klabunde, Patricia Klabunde, Lydia Klabunde, Corrin Erickson and Nathan Erickson. Younger brother of Kenneth Klabunde. Loved by many other relatives and friends. Jim will be missed, but will never be far from our hearts. Jim attended Phillips grade school, Rufus King High School and Milwaukee State Teachers College (UW-Milwaukee). After serving 2 years in the Army during the Korean Conflict, he started his teaching career at Lincoln High School, eventually retiring from Bay View High School after 27 years. Jim was an exceptional athlete and basketball player, with a jump shot that could not be stopped. He passed his love of athletics on to many others by coaching high school basketball, golf, tennis and swimming. He also enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports, often offering his expert advice. Jim especially loved golfing with his buddies, and playing sheepshead and bridge with good friends. He and Barb traveled extensively during their retirement, exploring the United States in their motor home (R Toye), and visiting Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and many other places. Jim had wonderful friends with whom he enjoyed life to the fullest. The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, August 26 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon at Wisconsin Memorial, Chapel of the Chimes, 13235 W. Capitol Dr. in Brookfield. Rev. Dr. Timothy Perkins will hold services at 12:00 noon, with a reception to follow at The Family Center. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent in honor of Jim to Bethel-Bethany United Church of Christ, 2878 N. 54th Street, Milwaukee WI 53210. The family would like to thank Vitas Home Hospice Care for their kindness, care and understanding during these past difficult days. SCHMIDT & BARTELT Funeral and Cremation Service 10121 W. North Ave. Wauwatosa (414) 774-5010

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Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from Aug. 24 to Aug. 25, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for James Klabunde

12 Entries

Coach Jerry Sullivan

September 5, 2006

Dear Barb and Family: As Basketball Coach at South Milwaukee High School and a Official for many years it was always nice to go to Bay View and spend some time with John. He was always a joy and very positive. Myself and Jims coaching friend John Weinert spoke of Jim often. We lost a good man and Heaven is better off with the addition of Jim to their Coaching Staff. My wife Sandra and I will keep you in our prayers during this heavy sad time. Remember the wonderful memories and continue to enjoy his life. Jerry Sullivan Coaching friend of Jim's

John Klabunde

September 5, 2006

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Virginia Murphy

August 30, 2006

Dear Barbara,I was saddened to learn that Jim passed away...Nancy Bublitz called me...I remember Jim as always being fun to be with & part of the group from County...I'm sure he'll be missed by you & your family

Franci Bernstein-Koehn

August 26, 2006

Dear Kathy and family,

I was very sorry to learn of your loss. Your parents' house was always a nice place to visit and I will remember your dad fondly.

Our heartfelt sympathies are with you at this difficult time.

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Christine Taegar

August 26, 2006

Dearest Barbara and Family,

We just learned of Jim's death and want you to know how much we all loved him. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I'm sorry we are so far away and are unable to be with you today.

Much Love,

Christine (Buckel) Taegar and the Buckel family - Werner, Kurt, Cara, and Jason.

Georgia Panos-Wieseler

August 26, 2006

Klabunde family. I'm so sorry to hear of Jim's death. His memories of so many years past remain sweet in my mind. May his life be eternal. Georgia Panos-Wieseler

LINDA KAPHEIM

August 25, 2006

DEAR BARB AND FAMILY(ESPECIALLY KEITH PAULA JAMES PATRICIA & LYDIA)

JEAN & I ARE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY...THANKS JIM FOR SNOWBLOWING OUR FRONT WALK SO MANY TIMES. YOUR NEIGHBORS JEAN AND LINDA

Dean Stoner

August 24, 2006

Coach,

You will be missed by many, you were the best coach, Physical Science and Physics teacher I ever had.

Mark Hillert

August 24, 2006

Dear Kathy and Family - I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad when Barb N told me today. It was nice that you were able to be with him. I know you will have many cherised memories - they will really help you all get through this. Please accept our sincerest sympathy and condolences. God Bless You All. Mark and Pam Hillert

PATRICIA MARTIN

August 24, 2006

DEAR BARBARA AND FAMILY:

I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF JIM'S DEATH. HE WAS A WONDERFUL FRIEND TO GLENN THROUGH OUT THEIR ENTIRE LIFE. I AM SO HAPPY TO HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF BEING HIS FRIEND AND YOURS, BARBARA.

GOD BLESS YOU AND STAY IN TOUCH.

LOVE, PAT, PATRICK AND RICHARD

Rick Zingsheim

August 24, 2006

You will be missed great friend.

Barb Natelle

August 24, 2006

Dear Kathy and Family,

We are so saddened by your loss, but are pleased you were with him during the final hours. As Kathy said her dad is now an angel, from what I have read, he is now an angel in heaven but was also an angel on earth.

May the warm memories you have on him help and guide you through the most difficult times.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Barb Natelle and the staff students and families at Syble Hopp School

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