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James Covelli Obituary
October 23, 1950 - May 26, 2025
James Kurt Covelli, 74, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, May 26, 2025. Born in Kenosha, Wis., on October 23, 1950, to the late Joseph and Julia (née Kremis) Covelli. He mastered the art of a good story, a great laugh, and an even better golf swing.
A 1968 graduate of Horlick High School, Jim was a standout athlete in golf, baseball, football, and basketball. He took that drive to Carroll College, earning a degree in Business Administration, along with a football scholarship and lifelong friends.
On July 15, 1972, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Linda M. Sondergaard. They shared 53 years of love, laughter, and adventure.
Professionally, Jim built a successful career, joining S.C. Johnson in 1981 and later retiring from Diversey Sealed Air in 2010 as the Director of Credit. But it was on the golf course where he truly felt at home, especially Meadowbrook Country Club. From 1973 to 2023, Jim played in national, state, and local tournaments, racking up wins, ten holes-in-one, an albatross, and four Racine County Open titles.
Though his swing was smooth and his aim deadly, it was time with family, especially his grandchildren, that brought him the greatest joy. Jim's integrity, competitive spirit, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Linda; son, Chad (Cari) Covelli of Rockingham, Va., Laura Covelli and husband Eric Dahlke of Racine, Wis.; grandchildren, Carter and Avery Covelli, Layla and Lincoln Dahlke; brother, Claude (Jt) Covelli of Madison, Wis.; sister, Jean (David) Lee of Gulf Breeze, Fla.; brother, Robert (Lisa) Covelli of Racine; in-laws, Kathy (Mark) Bonady, Gary (Lisa) Sondergaard, Scott (Lori) Sondergaard; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and countless golfers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edward and Beatrice Sondergaard.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Meadowbrook Country Club, 2149 N. Green Bay Rd, Racine, WI on Friday, June 20, 2025. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., with a memorial service and reception to follow at 12 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Meadowbrook Country Club, where a memorial will be created in Jim's name.
Family, fairways, and a fierce love for life, Jim's legacy is a hole-in-one.
MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 MAIN ST. RACINE, WI 53403
(262) 634-7888
Please send condolences to
www.meredithfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Covelli
Jim Schnetz
June 13, 2025
I was very fortunate to cover many of Jim's successes on the golf course while a member of the Journal Times sports staff back in the early 80s. He was not only a champion on the course, but a true gentleman off it, and he was a joy to converse with. My condolences to his family and many friends.
Jane Leonhardt
June 4, 2025
Linda (and family) - I was so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was great to work with (professional with a great sense of humor) at J-Wax.
As the days and weeks pass, may you feel comforted by the prayers, love and support of family and friends.
Sue & Les Chambasian
June 2, 2025
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. We hope fond memories - on and off the golf course- will sustain you during this sad time.
Bill and Rosemary Dorece
June 2, 2025
Jim was a fierce competitor, which is typical of a good athlete. He always had a smile on his face, especially at the golf course, which he really enjoyed. A good guy. He will be missed.
Tom Chernouski
June 1, 2025
Linda and family, so very sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences!
GORDANA ILIC (ex-Petkovich)
June 1, 2025
Many years have passed but I still remember that you were always kind, even though I was more old fashioned, you made me laugh and enjoy the days. Also teased me because I didn't go to graduation due to leaving for Europe days before
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