James J. Baus

James J. “Jim” Baus, 69, of Onalaska, died at his home on Friday, October 10, 2014.

He was born in Sparta, Wisconsin on December 6, 1944, to Norbert and Annabelle (Hauser) Baus. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic Grade School in rural Cashton and was a 1963 graduate of Cashton High School. He married Karen Haun on October 15, 1966, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in rural Cashton and they later divorced.

Jim established Baus Catering in La Crosse in 1973, which he operated with his wife, Karen, for over 30 years. For many years, he donated his facilities and services in cooking for the La Crosse Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Jim was a humble man who was kind and generous to everyone, especially his family, and was also known to be an accomplished prankster.

Jim was a member of the Onalaska Council of the Knights of Columbus and was a past member of the Lions. In his free time, he enjoyed refinishing antique furniture and enjoyed caring for his yard and the flowers he grew around the house.

He is survived by his three children, Todd(Tami) of Onalaska, Lisa Verhota of La Crosse, Mark (Jolene) of West Salem; ten grandchildren, Seth, Erica, Chelsey, Daniel, Riley, Evan, Bryce (Jena), Allison, Derek, and Andrew; and great granddaughter, Elliana. Jim is further survived by his siblings, Connie (Frank) Jeffords of Onalaska, Dennis (Paula) Baus of Holmen, and Teri Baus (Bud Greenbush) of Onalaska; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Peyton and Brayden of Cashton. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Sharon Von Ruden.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m., on Wednesday, October 15th, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1031 Main St., Onalaska. Msgr. Delbert Malin will officiate assisted by Deacon Frank Abnet. Burial will take place in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Cashton. Friends may call on the family at the church on Tuesday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m., where a prayer service will begin at 4:00 p.m., and also on Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of mass. Memorials may be directed to the American Diabetes Association-Wisconsin Affiliate.