James Bert Utgard age 82, of Amery, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on February 28, 2014 surrounded by his family.
Jim was born in New Richmond, WI on August 9, 1931 to Bert and Mildred (Hansen) Utgard. He was raised in Alden Township. He graduated from Amery High School in 1949. From 1953 to 1955 Jim served in the US Army as a Welder and Platoon Sergeant working with the construction engineers in Korea. He was a longstanding member of the VFW, still kept in touch with his army buddies and enjoyed attending reunions that they held. He started his plumbing career with Amery Plumbing and Heating and in 1969 he became a Member of the Local 385 Plumbers and Steamfitters Union.
He was united in marriage to Donna Peterson on October 18, 1952 to which 4 children were born. They were married for 27 years until Donna's death in July 1979.
Jim was very fortunate to have met and married Nancy Keith on October 21, 1988. Because of Nancy's love and devotion, Jim was able to stay at home through his declining health.
He had a love for tractors, going to engine shows and visiting with his many friends. He enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Danbury and cutting the winter's supply of wood until his health wouldn't allow. As many knew and could tell Jim could never pass up a garage sale.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Donna and granddaughter Amanda Utgard.
Survivors include his wife of 25 years Nancy; children: Janell (Dean) Talerico, Mike (Brenda) Utgard, Linda (Jim) Kuchenmeister, Brady Utgard; stepchildren: Carrie (Tim) Christen, Craig (Chris) Ryan. He also leaves his grandchildren: Kari Desnoyers, Chad and Stacy Utgard, Kelsey Monteith, Britney Hammerschmidt, Thad Betzold, Cody and Kimber Utgard; step grandchildren: Katie, Ryan, Molly, Abby and Jill; ten great grandchildren and brothers: Russell and Bob Utgard as well as many other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will be on Friday, March 7, 2014 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the Williamson ~ White Funeral Home in Amery and 1 hour prior to services at the church. Funeral services will be on Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. from First Lutheran Church in Amery. Interment with military honors will be held at the Amery Cemetery following the service.