James F. Belanger

James F. Belanger, age 70 of West Bend died Thursday, March 5, 2026 at his residence. He was born July 1, 1955 in Bessmer, Michigan to Francis and Patricia (nee Machac) Belanger.

Jim was a passionate, life-long fisherman who enjoyed spending time with family and friends out on the water. He was known to many as Captain Jim Belanger and was a charter fishing boat captain out of Port Washington for many years.

He worked for many years at Serigraph in West Bend before working as the manager of the fly fishing department at Cabelas.

Nothing meant more to Jim than his family and he cherished spending time with his children, grandsons and great-granddaughters.

Jim is survived by his 3 children: Sherra (Tim) Burg, Chairity Belanger and Forrest (Casey) Belanger, 8 grandsons: Bruce, Benjamin (Sarah), James, Tommy, Brandon (Jessica), Blake, Madyson and Forrest Jr. and 2 great-granddaughters Riverleigh and Iyla. He is further survived by his mother Patricia Belanger, his sister Lynn (Don) Knop, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father Francis Belanger, his brother Jeffrey Belanger and 2 grandsons Hunter and Nicholas. He was further predeceased by the love of his life, Amy.

Please wear your favorite fishing gear to a memorial service for Jim on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 12 noon at the Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend. The family will greet visitors from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers memorials to the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame are appreciated.

The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family. If you would like to leave a message of comfort or a memory of Jim please visit www.schmidtfuneralhome.com