Rev. James B. Cera

Reverend James B. Cera

(7/13/39-11/01/21)

Appropriately taken from this life on "All Saints Day" to begin a new spiritual journey in the Grand Kingdom.

James was a breadth of fresh air to those who knew him with a euphoric laugh that would embarrass Santa Claus, and was as contagious as a yawn. His greatest gift was his ability to bring joy and happiness to those he touched, never realizing the uplifting nature of his interactions. His love of laughter will not end in this world, as our memory of him and the laughter he brought to us, will remain immortal.

James is survived by his brother Bob; sister, Mary (Sister Mary Ann); sister, Nancy (Vince); sister, Doris (Roger); brother, Paul; and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as several great nieces and nephews.

James was ordained in May of 1964, and began his labor of love at Roman's parish until 1970. He was transferred to Immaculate Conception until 1976 and then moved to St. Mary's in South Milwaukee until 1983. He was appointed pastor of St. George in Elkhart Lake where he had his longest tenure from 1983-1995. In 1995 he moved closer to home and was pastor of St. Mary's, Kansasville, until his retirement in 2005. Fr. Cera's unique perspective led one of his parishioners to write this: "when God sent his only son, He made him a man to walk and live among the people so the people could better identify with Him, and would therefore be more willing to listen and follow. That is how I feel about Fr. Cera. He is one of us, I can relax around him and laugh…and I learn from him".

James spent the last 16 years of his life at Alexian village where he said he was treated like a "king". Whenever asked, his response was always "I love this place". He had a unique relationship with the staff and loved each one as he loved his parishioners. We know he had some flaws at times, but we hope his quick wit and sharp tongue entertained you, and made your tireless job more tolerable. We also appreciated the care and effort by the Horizon Hospice unit with their ability to provide comfort and assistance during the last challenging months. A special shout out goes to Patty Button who has managed James' care for many years through Community Care and has been a strong and faithful advocate and ally to both James and the family. And lastly, a huge "Thank You" to our sister Mary, who played a significant role as the last "Milwaukean". Her dedication and commitment to the family, and particularly James, goes unquestioned. Whether providing for dental work, or cutting his hair, whether singing songs with him or just visiting, she was his biggest advocate, entertaining him in the same way he entertained us.

A memorial service will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Faith Community, 9520 West Forest Home Ave. Viewing will be from 10:00 AM-10:45, followed by a celebration of his life at 11:00. If so desired, friends may make a memorial contribution to: Sisters of Charity of St Joan Antida, 8560 N. 76th Place, Milwaukee, WI 53223.