James "Jim" Kendhammer

James “Jim” G. Kendhammer, 71, of rural La Crosse, died at his home on Friday, March 31, 2017.

Jim was born January 2, 1946, in La Crosse, to Edward and Erma (Strittmater) Kendhammer. He attended Aquinas High School and La Crosse Central High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy, serving for 4 years. On April 11, 1975, Jim married Marie E. Niedfeldt in Waukon, Iowa.

Jim worked for the La Crosse Garment Co. and Jack Winters for several years then worked for The Company Store before retiring in 2011. Early in his life, he enjoyed racing stock cars in West Salem. He was also an avid outdoorsman throughout his life who enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping or just working on his farm. More than anything else, Jim loved spending time with his grandchildren and following their activities.

He is survived by his wife, Marie; and his three children and their families, Shelly (Jill Schultz) Kendhammer of Onalaska, William (Kathy) Kendhammer and their children, Owen and Addison, of La Crosse, and Steven (Jessica) Kendhammer and their children, Carter and Madeline, of Holmen. Jim is also survived by a sister, Mary (Harlan) Hicks of West Salem; two sisters-in-law, Patricia Kendhammer and Marie A. Kendhammer both of La Crosse; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Shirley Clarkin, and her husband, Dick Clarkin; and two brothers, Robert and Edward Kendhammer.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, April 6 ^th , at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. So., La Crosse. Family and friends may call from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home and also from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday.