James Warden

1942 - 2025

James Warden

August 9, 1942 - July 25, 2025

James William Warden passed away surrounded by family on Wednesday, July 25, just short of his 83rd birthday. Known as Jim and sometimes Jimmy to family and friends, he was born on August 9, 1942, to James and Margaret Warden in Eau Claire. He graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1960 and married his wife Sharen in 1967.

As a young husband and father, Jim and his wife Sharen bought a small fixer-upper hobby farm north of Eleva, where they hoped to "live off the land" and where they built a life dedicated to growing plants and raising animals of all kinds. Alongside Sharen, Jim's endless curiosity, hard work, and intelligence transformed their fixer-upper into a place most visitors describe as "paradise" on earth. Some of Jim's projects over the years included: planting pines, oaks, and fruit trees, raising grapes and berries, seeding and harvesting crops, and collecting sap to make maple syrup. He also loved working on old cars and restored a 1979 Ford Bronco, a 1963 Jeep Willys, and a 1984 Ford short-box pickup. To those who knew him, Jim was a person who could fix anything, build anything, and if asked, offer solid advice with no BS. If he didn't know how to do something, it was certain that he would follow his interest and master it.

When Jim wasn't working on one of his farm projects, he was most likely fishing somewhere in Wisconsin. He was an avid fisherman and bought a small cabin near the mouth of the Brule River near Lake Superior where he spent many seasons fishing for trout, steelhead, salmon, and walleye. As a boy, Jim was interested in nature, creating butterfly and plant collections and hunting in the woods. This interest continued throughout his life, and he developed a deep knowledge of the Northern Wisconsin environment. If asked, he could identify any plant, bird, or bug that he encountered, and if he couldn't place it, you could be sure he would look it up.

In addition to cultivating his interests, Jim was a member of the Carpenters Union, Local 1074 for over 50 years. Like many construction workers from the area, he helped build numerous structures throughout Eau Claire County and northern Wisconsin.

Jim never stopped learning and had at least five projects going at all times, yet he was always willing to share his knowledge or a tool, and to lend a hand when needed. He will be remembered as charming and sharp-witted – an endlessly clever man with a forever twinkle in his blue eyes. He was quick with a joke or funny story, and he loved a game as well, whether it was cribbage, dirty clubs, or any other game involving a show of smarts, strategy, and a bit of luck. He approached conversations the same way.

Jim is survived by his wife and soulmate of 58 years, Sharen Warden; his son Michael (Barb) and daughter Mary (Judy); and grandchildren Mark Warden (Ashley) and Olivia Warden (Michael). He is also survived by sisters Judy Warden (Katie) and Joan Sprain (Cal); and brother-in-law Gordon Van Dyke (Diane) and sister-in-law Geri Hecker. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

The family extends a special thank you to the caregivers of Colfax Assisted Living and to St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care Jim received. They also thank family and friends for their support.

We will celebrate Jim's life at a later date at Jim and Sharen's "paradise" farm. Friends and family can offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.