James D. Fema

James D. Fema, 87, of La Crosse, WI passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse. He was born on March 12, 1937 in La Crosse to Leonard and Dorothy (Morrison) Fema. Jim loved to hunt whether it was chasing after a deer or hiding out in the brush waiting for a Tom to strut by. Camping was another passion of his. He would load the family up in the boat and head down the Mississippi River to Nickel Island to pitch their tents. Later in life a camper suited Jim and Shirley comfortably. 

Jim and Shirley enjoyed their time together riding the Harley or just cruising through Riverside Park. Jim enjoyed watching football, old westerns and birds. He knew the names and sounds of all the birds. He loved gardening whether it was vegetables or sprucing it up around the yard and fishpond. He was best known for his red geraniums which his children will continue to enjoy. Jim cherished his and Shirley’s children. He had a special bond with each one of them. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jim and Shirley just celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on February 7, 2025. He will be deeply missed…

Jim is survived by his loving wife Shirley and their five children, Jim (Dawn) Fema, Tony Fema, Dorothy (Scott) Schaefer, John Fema and Ivy Fema; ten grandchildren Jade (Ethan) Proksch, Lacey Fema, Dylan Fema, Savannah (Trevor Munkelwitz) Fema, Matt Nelson, Jenny Fema, Brooke (Nate) Tourville, Jacob Schaefer, Jared (Mariah) Schaefer and Zachary (Rebecca) Swedberg; fifteen great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brother Ernie Fema and Bill Fema, two sisters Patricia Misch and Ivalyn Trucks, seven nephews Jimmy, Ernie, Stevie, Bill, Billy, Joey and Jeff, three nieces Sheila, Renee and Dianne. 

Jim’s family would like to extend a big thank you to Gundersen Hospital orthopedic care unit. They were so patient and caring, keeping our dad comfortable. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 28, 2025 at Schumacher – Kish Funeral & Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. S., La Crosse. Rev. Lawrence B. Berger will officiate. Burial will follow in Mormon Coulee Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday from 10 AM until the time of service.