James Vernon "Jim" Harmatys

James Vernon Harmatys

December 19, 1948 – November 28, 2025

James "Jim" Vernon Harmatys, 76, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025. Born on December 19, 1948, Jim lived a life defined by love, loyalty, and an unwavering devotion to the people he held dear.

As a Vietnam veteran, Jim served his country with courage and honor. The discipline, resilience, and kindness he carried throughout his life reflected the strength of his service.

In 1970, Jim married the love of his life, Judy (Kleman) Harmatys, with whom he shared over fifty years of marriage, laughter, and family. Judy preceded him in death in 2022, and their reunion now brings comfort to those who loved them both.

A proud and dedicated father, Jim leaves behind his three children-Amy, Becky, and Michael-who were the center of his world, his most precious jewels. He was a loving grandfather to Allie, Noah, Samantha, and Gabriel, each of whom brought him tremendous joy and of whom he would brag about to anyone who would listen. Jim is also survived by Amy's husband Chris and Michael's wife, Jessica, both of whom he welcomed warmly into the family.

Jim's memory will also be cherished by his sister Kathy (Kevin) and his brothers Andy, Tom (Shelly), and Frank (Cathy), and his brother-in-law Bill and sister-in-law Jeanne (Ron) along with many extended family members and friends who were touched by his kindness and good humor. He is preceded in death by his siblings Dick, Mary, and Lynn (John) and sister-in-law Janice.

Above all, Jim was a fiercely loyal and devoted family man. Family wasn't just important to him; it was the foundation of his world, and he cherished it with everything he had. And while his family was the true sweetness of his life, Jim also had a memorable sweet tooth of his own. He loved everything from Kit Kats and Almond Joys to apple pie and crullers, and he never passed up a good snack-especially Fritos, pretzel rods, or potato chips. These small indulgences brought him joy, but they never compared to the joy he found in the "sweetness" of the people he loved most.

Jim was known for his wonderfully infectious laugh-a laugh that could instantly lighten a room. Whether he was sharing a story, telling a joke, enjoying a cold Miller Lite, or teasing someone over a cribbage game, his laughter created an atmosphere of fun for all.

Jim never gave up on the possibility of a little luck. He played the lottery every week-faithfully, optimistically, and with a grin-always imagining what he might do if his numbers ever came up. As an avid sports fan, he loved cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers, and he especially enjoyed watching golf. His competitive spirit came alive in the many sports betting pools he joined-golf pools, March Madness brackets, and football pools-always shared with family and friends. He also enjoyed playing golf himself and cherished the time spent out on the course.

Jim also enjoyed life's simple pleasures, including the north woods, a roaring bonfire, and a warm bowl of beef stew. But he found his greatest happiness in time spent with family. Jim was a wonderful man whose steady presence, generous heart, fierce loyalty, and unmistakable laugh will be dearly missed.

His legacy lives on in the family he adored and in the countless memories shared with those fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Judy and held forever in the hearts of those who loved him most.

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