James S. Tessmer

Born to Eternal Life on April 17, 2024 at age 85. Lovingly survived by his wife Elaine (nee Schultz). Beloved father of David (Diane) Tessmer, MaryBeth (Michael) Yelanjian, Stephen Tessmer and Michelle (Edward) Ladwig. Proud grandfather of Gabriel (Abby), Hannah, Emily, Anna and Jackson. Dear brother of Henry (Terry) Tessmer. Brother-in-law of Carol Zaworski and Randy (Sandy) Schultz. He is further survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues. Jim is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Charlotte and by his in-laws John and Mae.

He proudly served in the Wisconsin Air National Guard as a crew chief on the F-89 and KC-97. Dedicated employee for 42 years at AM International. Served 23 years on the South Milwaukee Planning Commission. Jim was an avid outdoorsman with a great sense of humor and gifted handyman. He was a talented gardener and loved to grow Heritage Tomatoes. Proud Packer shareholder and fan. The family enjoyed time spent at the cottage on Green Lake in Mountain, WI. Together, Jim and Elaine traveled the United States and the World, making memories to last a lifetime.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 26th at Divine Mercy Church (800 Marquette Ave, South Milwaukee) from 9:30-10:45 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM. Private interment at St. Adalbert Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Aurora Zilber Family Hospice or the Leukemia Society. The family would like to thank the staff at South Milwaukee EMS, Aurora Health Care and Zilber Family Hospice for helping Jim transition in life.