James Kamphuis

James “Jim” E. Kamphuis, age 82, of Brandon, went to his heavenly home on Monday, December 29, 2025, where he was reunited with his beloved wife, Charlene.

Jim was born on November 12, 1943, in Ripon, the son of Garrett J. and Minnie (Schouten) Kamphuis. A 1961 graduate of Brandon High School, Jim farmed on the family farm for more than 60 years and proudly worked the land until just last year. After selling the dairy cows 20 years ago, he enjoyed driving school bus for Lapers Bus Service for the Rosendale-Brandon School District for many years. One of his favorite parts of the job was transporting school sports teams, especially when it meant cheering on teams that included his grandchildren.

On September 2, 1966, Jim was united in marriage to the love of his life, Charlene Loomans, at Alto Reformed Church. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community in Brandon. They were married for more than 58 years until Charlene’s passing this past August.

Jim was deeply committed to serving his community. He served on the Alto Fair Board for over 20 years in various roles, including president. He also served on the Metomen Town Board for more than 15 years, including time as Town Chairman. Jim was an active member of Bethel Reformed Church in Brandon, where he faithfully served multiple terms as both elder and deacon.

Jim is survived by his children: Randy (Carla) Kamphuis, Shelly (Dave) Freiberg, Tricia (Steve) Weisnicht, Torrie (Brian) Grade, and Craig (Heidi) Kamphuis; 17 grandchildren: Andrew (Alicia), Nicholas, Eric, Meghan, Andrew Wix, Kaelyn (Jimmy) Huebschman, Mitchell (Amanda) Freiberg, Kenna (Dawson) Drews, Taylor (Cassie) Weisnicht, Collin (Emma) Weisnicht, Keegan, Maci (fiancé Hunter), Jaeden, Alivia, James, Aubrey, and Adelynn; 7 great-grandchildren: Aiden, Kinsley, Rhett, Cason, Charlotte, Baker, and Reese; his sister, Marilyn Kamphuis of Waupun; sisters-in-law, Joan Kamphuis of Appleton and Darlene Kamphuis of Brandon; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlene; his parents; brothers, Jerome and Glen Kamphuis; and other close friends and relatives.

Jim was a devoted and steady father, and his children know how fortunate they were to have him. He led by example, through hard work, faith, integrity, and consistency. He provided, he listened, and he taught by doing rather than talking. His values were lived out every day, and those lessons continue through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The family was blessed to call him dad, and his influence will carry on for generations.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel Reformed Church in Brandon, with Reverend Gary Zacharias officiating. Burial will follow at Alto Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun, and again on Saturday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.