James Arthur Thays

James Arthur Thays, 82, of Harrisville, Wisconsin, passed away surrounded by family on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

Jim was born on September 25, 1943, the son of Shirley and Art Thays. He attended Layton School of Art and UW-Milwaukee. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. After a medical discharge from the Navy, he became a medical photographer and illustrator working at Milwaukee Children's Hospital. Jim married Alanna (Morrical) Thays on October 7, 1967 in Westfield, WI, and recently celebrated a 58th anniversary together. They welcomed their sons Brian in 1968 and Kevin in 1970 and moved to Harrisville in 1972. Jim co-started the ambulance service in Marquette County and was recognized as the go-to person for those in the area with emergency needs. He continued his career as Advanced Life Support Coordinator at Wisconsin Division of Health/EMS (at which time he also became a paramedic) for approximately 25 years, and continued to consult after retiring.

In retirement, Jim enjoyed his time wood carving, playing guitar and many other hobbies at his residence in Harrisville, while also working alongside Alanna at their home art studio, Wildlife Memories. Also a painter, Jim had a love for art and continued to support Alanna’s development as an artist. Outside the home he enjoyed traveling with Alanna to favorite vacation destinations, like Jamaica. He loved outdoor activities like duck hunting, fishing on the river with his son Kevin, growing trees, gardening, and spending time in nature. He started a purple martin colony with his son Brian, a passion they shared together. He loved his pets, from pigeons to their current dog Tia. Jim was also intrigued with astronomy, and what was beyond earth, as well as a weather enthusiast, especially when it came to snow storms.

Humor was always part of Jim’s life. A master of sarcasm, he was quick to make or respond to a joke that often included family members. His beloved family extended to his daughters-in-law and grandchildren, all who took part in his annual Easter treasure hunt through his “back 40,” filled with his version of humor. He enjoyed the spirit of Packers games in the family text thread engaging with his brothers, nieces and other family members, as well as catching up over morning coffee in the gazebo.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and grandson Shayne Arthur Thays. He is survived by his wife Alanna, sons Brian (Katie) Thays and Kevin (Tracy) Thays, brothers Bob (Bethe) Thays, Mike (Kathy) Thays and Jon (Fawn) Thays, grandchildren Paige, Kyla, Leanna and Preston, and other family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family wishes to thank the Marquette County EMS, Madison VA and Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital health care teams for their care of Jim.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Jim’s honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Of Jim’s wishes, there will be a private memorial with immediate family.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall. Send your condolences or share a memory of Jim with his family & friends.