James S. "Jim" Schaalma, age 61 of Beaver Dam, went to his eternal heavenly home on Monday, May 19, 2008 with family members at his side after a courageous, 7 year battle with cancer. Jim was born March 2, 1947 in Beaver Dam to Albert and Jennie (nee Fisher) Schaalma. On September 22, 1967 he married Rose M. Smits at Friesland Reformed Church in Friesland.

During his working years, Jim worked at Chrysler Outboard Motors, Monarch Range, TAB Products and recently retired as an agent with Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. Jim's faith was his top priority and he was an active member of the First Reformed Church of Friesland, serving in many capacities such as Deacon, Elder, and Sunday School teacher. He also sang in the Church Choir and was a member of the Friesland Men's Community Choir. Jim was a true family man and always put his faith and family above all else. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed such activities as hunting, bird watching, and coaching youth soccer and baseball in Beaver Dam while his son's were growing up. Jim was an active member in the Dr. Darrell Link cancer support group, and in 2006 he served as Chairman for the Relay for Life in Beaver Dam. Through his life, he was able to positively impact many different people through his kind words and actions. Jim was a man of integrity and sharing time with family, friends and new acquaintances were the joy of his life.

When Jim found out his cancer had returned, his goal was to see his youngest son Nicolas play baseball and graduate from Wayland Academy. He was granted his wishes and he died the day after graduation. Jim was a tremendous husband, father and grandfather and will be deeply missed.

Jim is survived by Rose, his wife of 41 years, three sons, Philip James (Monica) Schaalma of Friesland, Joshua Alan (Michelle) Schaalma of Fond du Lac and Nicolas Jordan Schaalma at home; five grandchildren, Owen, Leah, Tanner, Baylee and Jacob; and two sisters, Marlene (Richard) DeYoung and Marilyn (Charles) Sytsma both of Randolph. He is further survived by five aunts, brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many friends. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, two infant siblings, a nephew, Nolan Michael Smits and other relatives.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 from 4-8 p.m. at Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services, 135 Keller Blvd. in Beaver Dam. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. at First Reformed Church, 107 E. Winnebago St. in Friesland with Rev. Rob Ford officiating. There will be a visitation prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. Burial will take place in Friesland Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the new Hymnal Fund at Friesland Reformed Church.

Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Beaver Dam is honored to be serving the family.

Click HERE to view Jim's Life Tribute Video.