James M. "Jim" Weinzatl

James M. Weinzatl, 78, of Tomah, WI, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Serenity House in Tomah.
Jim was born at home on September 3, 1946, in Prentice, WI, to his proud parents, Martin George and Loretta (Weber) Weinzatl. He met his future wife, Wilma J. Webber, in Colorado, and they were married on December 31, 1966. Together, they raised three children. Even though Jim and Wilma later separated, they remained close throughout the years.
Jim grew up on the family farm in Prentice, but his ambitions led him in a different direction. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army, a decision that shaped the course of his career. His service led him to a distinguished 30-year career at various VA hospitals across the western United States, before he returned to Wisconsin in September 1975. After retiring from the VA, Jim continued working, spending eight years at the Walmart Distribution Center.
Jim's passion for history and genealogy led him to the Tomah Museum at the request of Frosty Mades. He took immense pride in documenting his family's history and this led him to his research efforts for the Veteran's Administration and the Bureau of Indian Affairs school histories. His dedication to historical preservation became even more evident when he took on the role of Director of the Tomah Area Historical Society and Museum, helping it grow and thrive through his leadership of over 22 years out of the 27 years of the Museum's existence. Over the years, Jim formed many friendships through his fundraising efforts and deep involvement in the community with the Knight of Columbus, Faith in Action, the Lions, and his love for throwing horseshoes and participating in various bowling leagues.
Jim is survived by his former spouse, Wilma Webber; his children, Scott (Betty) Weinzatl, Lisa Weinzatl, and Jason (Jazmyn) Weinzatl; and his six grandchildren-Tyler Weinzatl, Jennifer Weinzatl, Jenaica Weinzatl, Jayden Weinzatl, Jerrick Weinzatl, Jaxon Weinzatl, and two step grandchildren Brittany Suhr, and Jared Kutschan.
He is also survived by his three sisters, Theresa (Eugene) Bushman, Donna (Doug) Koch, and Barb Hueckman, along with many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Martin, and Loretta Weinzatl; his nephew, Bradley Bushman; and his brother-in-law, Jeff Hueckman.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Queen of the Apostles Parish in Tomah. Father Ethan Hokamp will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Tomah. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a rosary beginning at 3:30 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Visitation will also be held on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church on Wednesday.
In lieu of flowers, Jim would appreciate a donation to the Tomah Historical Society and Museum.
The Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com