James Martin Ivaska

James Martin Ivaska, a life-long resident of Mosinee, Wisconsin passed away after a brief illness at the age of 85 while surrounded by loved ones, including his wife of 64 years Joan Barbara Ivaska and their 3 sons. He was a loving & devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and Uncle. James had many extended family & friends.

James was born in Mosinee on January 11th, 1940, to John & Mary (Kubik) Ivaska. While growing up on the family farm which included 3 brothers and 3 sisters, he decided to venture out in the world. Along with serving in the National Guard, he traveled to Chicago, Illinois where he worked alongside his brothers Charles and Don at a tool & dye company for a short time. There while staying with his brother Don, he met the neighbor girl; Joan Barbara Puls. The two fell in love and married on January 28th, 1961, in Joliet, Illinois. Jim & Joan moved back to Mosinee and lived with his parents on the family farm until Lyle, their eldest son, was born in 1962. Two years later they moved into their own home and welcomed a son John, and later a son James and a daughter, Heidi.

James was employed from 1964-2002 with the Mosinee Paper Corporation. He retired after over 37 years as a Turbine Operator. Shortly after his retirement, James was hit hard when his wife Joan suffered a major stroke. This left her debilitated, and James found himself devoting the rest of his life taking care of her everyday needs.

When James wasn’t listening to or watching the Brewers (Bob Uecker) or the Packers, he was busy enjoying his many favorite past times. These he shared with his family and his wife Joan’s cousin Carl Braack. His favorite past times included duck, turkey, deer hunting, ice fishing, fly fishing and camping along with watching & supporting his grandchildren at their sporting events & dance classes. James loved planting and watching his garden grow just to share with everyone. James is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joan Ivaska; his sons Lyle (Annette), John (Rhonda) and James (Kathy); brother John Ivaska and sister Evelyn Nechuta; grandchildren Brittany, Tyler, Katie, Riley, Becca, Brodey and step grandsons Jerold, Clinton and Justin; great grandchildren Tatum and Brielle.

James was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary Ivaska; an infant sister Eve; siblings Pauline Shearer, Loretta Gunseor, Don Ivaska, Charles Ivaska; his daughter Heidi Pecha.

A golden heart stopped beating, hard-working hands at rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us. He only takes the best.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held on Sunday, March 9, at Two's Company in Mosinee, Wi. from 1-4 pm.