James "Jim" Norbert Kaczorowski "Kazz", age 68, of Franklin, Wisconsin, passed away on May 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on November 28, 1956, in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jim was a devoted father, loyal brother, loving uncle, and a wonderful friend and partner. He was the proud father of Jackie (Tom) Sabey and Ryan (Valerie) Kaczorowski. Loving boyfriend of Loretta Greco. Caring brother of Cindy Apollo, Ken Kaczorowski (Cindy Kaczorowski), Mary Kallenbach, and Sandy Kopp (Andy Karabelas). Proud Grandpa (Grampa) of Jordan and Micah. Further survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents, Norbert Kaczorowski and Mary Ann Kaczorowski; and beloved brother-in-law, Chris Kallenbach.
Jim was raised in Milwaukee and graduated from Hamilton High School in 1975. Jim was a skilled machinist and CNC operator in the industrial equipment supplier industry, exhibiting craftsmanship and dedication. Outside of work, Jim was a sports aficionado, passionately supporting the Milwaukee Bucks, Green Bay Packers, and Milwaukee Brewers. He had a lifelong love for NASCAR, enjoying watching races every weekend – a tradition that brought him comfort and joy. His love for NASCAR was evident through numerous weekends spent at tracks, including going to the Hales Corners Speedway with his father and brother and memorable trips to Bristol with friends and family. He had a knack for holding on to the TV remote, always making sure the news, stocks, sports, and especially races were front and center.
Jim cherished family above all else and treasured spending time with his loved ones. He found joy in taking walks and traveling to Florida for some relaxation and to Arizona for Spring training, making countless memories along the way. Whether it was working on cars, tending to yard projects, or fixing things around the house, Jim took pride in doing it himself and doing it right. Jim adored his grandsons and they adored their Grandpa, often affectionately calling him "Grampa Kacz Mustache" or "Grampa with the mustache".
A man who rarely shied away from voicing his thoughts, Jim shared his wisdom generously, offering guidance and support to those who sought his advice. His kindness was unmatched, and he brought joy to those around him – whether it was informal dinners, Kaczorowski holiday celebrations, playing with his grandsons, or simple things like drives to admire Christmas lights.
Jim's legacy will continue to resonate through the hearts of those who knew him. A compassionate spirit, he strived to make every moment count, whether coaching or cheering from the sidelines at his children's sports games or simply enjoying a good meal with them. He was generous and was always available to his children, especially when it came to their home projects. To say Jim was a "handyman" is an understatement. Anything his children needed help with, he found a way to be there and was always willing to help; even if it required driving to Chicago countless times, he selflessly helped remodel his children's homes. He liked to claim to be the "supervisor", but really, he ended up doing the work. His kindness and generosity didn't stop with his children, he was more than willing to help loved ones – family, nieces/nephews, friends, neighbors.
Friends and family are encouraged to come together on June 14, 2025 at Soiree Wine Bar, S76 W17745 Janesville Rd, Muskego, WI 53150 at 11:30am - 3:30pm to celebrate Jim's life, share loving memories, and honor the man who touched so many lives with his warmth and kindness. Please join us as we gather to remember a remarkable person who was immensely loved and will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers and trees, the family welcomes memorial donations to charities in Jim's honor. The family would love and cherish any memories you could share of Jim on the "tribute wall" below to create a tribute book.
May his memory be a blessing to us all.