James Joseph Mackey

James Joseph “JJ” Mackey, or “Jim”, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away at home surrounded by his family on July 21, 2025, at the age of 54. Jim bravely fought appendix cancer for nearly 4 years before entering Eternal Life. He was born on November 20, 1970, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to James and Shirley (née Kalinich) Mackey and was a loving brother to Lucy Bilaver and dedicated husband to Erin (nee White) Mackey.

Jim was a graduate of Marquette University High School in Milwaukee and followed in his parents’ footsteps to proudly graduate from Marquette University before earning his Masters of Science in Taxation from the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul University in Chicago, IL.

Jim began his career as an accountant working for Marcus Corporation and Jockey International before moving to Appleton to work for Appvion. He most recently worked at Schreiber International Foods as their International Tax Manager. Jim took pride in his work and had the ability to turn colleagues into good friends.

In 1996, Jim met Erin through his best friend. Their connection grew over seven years, and they married in 2004. They shared a deep love and partnership built on respect and unwavering support through life’s challenges. Jim was a wonderful husband with a quick wit and lighthearted nature that made every day brighter. He was Erin’s true soul mate and best friend. Side by side, they built a love from the small moments in life, a love and connection that became stronger through the years.

Jim had a lifelong love affair with cars: talking about them, researching his next purchase, detailing his Porsches, taking them out for a drive, and advising friends on the specifics of any car purchase. He also had an appreciation for fine dining and enjoyed meals with good friends and neighbors. At the same time, Jim was just as content being at home with Erin and his dogs watching the Packers or Milwaukee Bucks. A true dog lover at heart, he found comfort and companionship in Montague (Monty), Elsey (Lil’ E), and the memory of Finnley.

Jim will be remembered for his optimism, his ability to bring people together, and his big heart. Those left to cherish his memory include his devoted wife Erin, his sister Lucy & brother-in-law Damir Bilaver, nephews Nikola & Neven Bilaver, his aunts Jean Mackey & Grace Petashnick, father & mother-in-law David & Lynne White, brother & sister-in-law Christopher & Sarah White, and niece Trinity White. He also leaves behind many beloved relatives, friends, and colleagues throughout the years. He was preceded in death by his father James E. Mackey and mother Shirley (née Kalinich) Mackey.

Even during illness, Jim remained focused on others, hoping to help those facing similar challenges. His strength during difficult times reflected the same compassion that defined so much of his life. May Jim’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to

inspire kindness and connection in the lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jim’s name may be made to www.stjosephparish.org and www.spieringscancerfoundation.org.

A Visitation with urn will be held on August 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 410 W Lawrence Street, Appleton WI. A Memorial Service will follow at 10:30am with Br. Ray Stadmeyer officiating.