James R. Tessmer

James R. Tessmer, lovingly known as Jim, passed away on October 11, 2026, at the age of 68.

Jim was a charismatic, hardworking, and successful man who had a gift for making people laugh. He was a natural storyteller who could light up a room with his humor and personality. Whether sharing a good story, spending time with friends, or enjoying an adventure, Jim had a way of making every moment memorable.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Henry A. Tessmer, and is survived by his loving mother, Terry Tessmer. He was the beloved husband of Nancy Tessmer, his wife and best friend of over 50 years. Together, Jim and Nancy shared a lifetime of love, laughter, travel, and wonderful memories with their many friends.

Above all, Jim cherished his family. He was a devoted father to James Daniel Tessmer and his wife, Katy, and Amy Vannucci and her husband, Derek. He was a loving grandfather to James Delvin Tessmer, Ada Vannucci, Emmalyn Tessmer, and Bria Vannucci. Jim loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and would do anything for them. His family was a constant source of pride and joy, and he treasured the time they spent together.

Jim was also one of 12 siblings and shared close relationships with his 11 brothers and sisters. Family connections meant a great deal to him, and those bonds remained an important part of his life.

Throughout his successful career, Jim spent many years in the car business, where he built a successful professional life before retiring in 2012. Retirement gave him more time to enjoy the things he loved most. An outdoorsman and an adventurer at heart, Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, boating, and flying his airplane. He was rarely one to sit still for long and could usually be found working on a project or finding his next adventure.

Whether he was out on the water, in the air, enjoying a day on the golf course, or simply gathered with family and friends telling stories, Jim embraced life in his own way. He worked hard, played hard, loved deeply, and made the most of his time with the people who mattered most to him.

Jim will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his quick wit, his stories, and the laughter he brought into the lives of so many. Above all, he will be deeply missed by the family and friends who loved him and were fortunate enough to share in his life.

His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the countless memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter for years to come.

A memorial gathering will take place on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 4pm - 8pm at Golden Mast. N5293 Lacy's Lane, Okauchee, WI 53069.