James Fering

1942 - 2024

James (Jim) Fering died peacefully at home on Saturday, November 16.

James (Jim) Wesley Fering was born on March 4, 1942, in Minneapolis, MN to Ralph (Wesley) and Genevieve Carroll Fering. The family moved to Eau Claire when Jim was two years old, where he has lived ever since. The saying "there's no place like home" was truly imprinted on Jim's heart forever.

Jim graduated from Regis High School and went on to receive his bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, majoring in business. He married Kathleen Mulvaney in 1966, and to this union daughter Kirsten was born. He and Kate later divorced. During this time, he was hired as the city of Eau Claire's purchasing agent, where he proudly declared that he bought everything from paper clips to fire trucks and everything in between.

On July 18, 1975, Jim married Lynn Gregerson Melrose, and to this union, daughters Emily and Courtney were born. After marrying, they purchased two lots on a brand new street in Eau Claire, Green View Dr., and began building their new home after Jim drew the plans for it. He and Lynn have lived in their home for nearly 50 years, which he has always loved. There's no place like home.

Jim was a long time member of the Chippewa Valley Ham Radio Club, which he truly enjoyed until computers came into our lives. He then became a self-appointed tech guy and spent countless hours helping others with any computer issues they may have encountered. Jim was mechanically-minded and loved to tinker and could fix almost anything. Jim also ran several marathons, local races and enjoyed noon time basketball at the YMCA for decades. He spent time coaching his daughters and dedicated many weekends to their games and tournaments.

After retiring, he also enjoyed biking, hiking with Lynn, and golfing weekly with his many golf buddies. He especially enjoyed the 19th hole after golf with his friends. Jim and Lynn were dedicated UWEC Men's and Blugold Women's Basketball fans, being long time members of the Fast Break Club. He had looked forward to watching the Blugolds play in the Sonnentag Center, but with his illness, it was not to be. Fortunately, his best friend, Dan Market, made it possible for us to view the game on our TV, which was so much appreciated.

Despite the fact that Jim did not enjoy traveling, he and Lynn did share adventures across the US with the girls, including Hawaii. The couple also traveled to Alaska, Mexico, Europe, and the British Isles, which included watching the Ryder Cup in Wales. But after returning to Eau Claire each time, his motto was always there's no place like home.

During his cancer journey, the family was blessed by the outstanding care, compassion, and comfort provided by Mayo Clinic Hospice. All the nurses were superb, but his nurse, Emily, was exceptional and helped us so much during this time.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lynn; daughters, Kirsten Fering, Emily Inz, and Courtney (Ross) Merritt; and grandchildren, Zumi and Eiji Fering-Yoshioka, George and Gus Inz, and Magnus Merritt. He is further survived by sister, Cate(Cappy) Fering and brother-in-law Ken Peterson; brother-in-law, Larry Gregerson and his wife, Zee; along with sister-in-law, Karen DeMerit and husband, John; and several nieces, nephews and cousins on both sides of the family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Perk and Pearl Gregerson of Baldwin; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral, but there will be a gathering for family and friends on Sunday, December 8, from 2-5 p.m. at Wild Ridge Golf Course and Event Center, 3647 Kane Rd., Eau Claire. In lieu of flowers or plants, please consider sending a memorial gift to Feed My People Food Bank or Mayo Clinic Home Health & Hospice in Eau Claire, or a charity of your choice.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.