James H. Champine

James “Jim” Herbert Champine, age 90 of Beaver Dam, passed away with family by his side at his home on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Jim was born on July 19, 1935, in Wausau, WI to Herbert and Celestine (Arnette) Champine. He joined older sister, Nancy, in the family home. He was just a young boy when his dad died and he did his best to help fill the void that was left. Jim graduated from Wausau High School in 1954, and went on to run a movie theater, own a gas station and work for Kroger.

However, Jim’s favorite job was owning and operating JJ’s Bar in South Beaver Dam for the past 44 years. He enjoyed tending bar until he was in his mid-eighties, shaking dice, and sharing light beers and Ol’ Smokey Salty Caramel Whiskey with customers- customers that often became lifelong friends and “regulars”. He was quite personable, and enjoyed hosting large summer parties. Last summer, Jim was the honoree, as he reached 90 years young- a milestone he found gratitude in achieving.

Jim enjoyed downhill skiing in his younger years; while hunting, trap shooting and collecting guns became his hobbies later on. He also enjoyed bowling and four-wheeling with his children. However, his greatest happiness was always found in being with his family. He found joy in taking his family out on Friday nights. When he became a grand-and great grandfather- he became especially fond of the kids visiting-and running circles around him- at JJ’s.

Jim is survived by his children, Laurie Kennedy, Tony (Terri) Champine, Krista (Kevin) Skiba; and Kathy (Tom) Royal; daughter-in-law, Sara Champine; son-in-law, Don Neuman; grandchildren, Kari Neuman, Megan (Chase Fletcher) Neuman, Kyle (Francesca) Neuman, Kelly Skiba, Katie (Tyler) Bates, Kassidy Skiba, Kraig (Morgan) Skiba, Austin Royal, Jordin Royal, Carson Royal, Cara (Nate) Dassler; Brooke (Brendan Conaway) Kennedy, Eric (Alexandra) Kennedy, Morgan Champine, and Rachel Champine; great-grandchildren: Breelyn Dassler, Kenslie Dassler, Audriana Kennedy, baby boy Kennedy on the way, Brynlee Fletcher, Jagger Fletcher, Lane Neuman, Parker Bates, Jackson Bates, Theodora Skiba, baby girl Skiba on the way; his beloved cat, Boots; and further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Ann Champine, second wife, Joyce Champine; son, Daniel Champine; daughter, Annette Neuman; sister, Nancy; son-in-law, Tom Kennedy; and other relatives.

A special thank you to his multiple providers through SSM- especially his oncology team; we are forever grateful for the care and compassion you showed him. While his time with Hillside Hospice was short, we are extremely grateful for his nurses- Rita, Val and Jess- who made his last few days here comfortable, and helped our family navigate through end of life.

A memorial gathering for Jim will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Beaver Dam from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 3:00 p.m. Inurnment will take place at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery at a later date.