James M. Woest Obituary

Born to Eternal Life on October 2, 2022 at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Jane (nee Lonergan) for 53 years. Loving father of Kristin (Jeremy) Courchaine and Katie (Drew) Maziasz. Cherished grandpa of Jacob, Kayla, Carter, Lincoln and Layne. Dear brother of Chris (Bert) St. Louis, Monica (the late Jeff) Donohue and Linda (the late Jason) Roy. Further survived by brother and sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

After receiving a bachelor's degree from UW Milwaukee, Jim spent his entire 41-year-career at A.O. Smith, which later became Tower Automotive, primarily as an Automotive Manufacturing Manager. During that time he was a mentor to many employees and volunteered with Junior Acheivement to inspire young people to succeed. In 2006 Jim helped close the doors on the Milwaukee industrial giant, moving on to retired life along with the 2, 303, 597th and the last Ford Ranger frame.

Jim was a true sportsman and loved the outdoors. He hunted deer, geese, ducks, and bear both near and far. He always enjoyed fishing, particularly on Lake Winnebago, but also teaching his grandkids at Homestead Hollow Park and "up north". Those who knew him best regularly enjoyed his hand-breaded fish-fry that could rival any Wisconsin supperclub. The fish was cooked in his garage, which was cleaner than most peoples' kitchens, with a cocktail in hand. He was an avid gardener with his wife, Jane, as those who enjoyed the fruits of their labor knew well.

Jim also enjoyed trips to various casinos, both big and small. He was quite lucky over the years, as he liked to disclose, both on the machines and in life, most recently beating the odds in his three-year-battle with cancer.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, October 12 from 10AM until time of Memorial Mass at 12PM at St. Gabriel Catholic Church; 2414 Hillside Rd., Richfield. A private burial will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery in Richfield. In lieu of flowers friends and family may honor Jim's legacy by making a contribution to MACC fund.