James J. Rutkiewicz

Rutkiewicz, James J. "Jim" or "Big Jim" Jim finally found peace at the age of 74. He passed away surrounded by his loving family, on November 1, 2012. Jim was born on October 19, 1938, son of the late Frank and Ann (nee Wantuch) Rutkiewicz. He grew up in Milwaukee, and graduated from South Division High School in 1957. It was at South Division where he met his future wife and life mate, Judith Van Ert. On October 24, 1959, he married Judy, the love of his life, at the Basilica of Saint Josaphat. Jim worked as a Machine Repairman at Allen Bradley for 38 years, until his retirement in 1996. He avidly submitted time and money saving ideas through the Idea Action program there. Beloved husband, of 53 years, of Judy. Dear father of Kevin (Miriam), Dean (Krista) and Tracy (Scott) Klement. Loving grandpa and "grampachy" of Bryce, Zachary, Alexander, Alyssa, Jennifer and Jasmine. Jim will remain in the hearts of his sisters, the late Maryann (the late Lee) Palkowski, Caroline (Wells) Perkins and Judith (Peter) Gerasopoulos. Also loved, and loved by, other relatives and a community of friends including Margaret (the late Earl), Susie, Bob and Rosie, Donny, as well as many other friends from Allen Bradley and 7 Mile Fair. Jim had many loves, the first being his family and friends, and others including gardening, fixing and building things, visiting with his dear neighbor and friend Margaret, attending 7 Mile Fair, bidding on Ebay and emailing with his "cronies". He was always on the go, and had a zest for life. He had many great accomplishments including building the home that he and his family lived in since 1979, as well as building a Bradley GT kit car years earlier. He was a jack of all trades and if he couldn't fix it, he knew someone who could. Jim was also an over achiever and had a great thirst for knowledge. He attended MATC full-time for many years, while working full-time at Allen Bradley. Over the years he took many classes, including Carpentry, Cabinet Making, Welding, Auto Body, Jewelry Making, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning and Hydraulics. Some of these classes helped him with the designing and building of the home they lived in. The achievements in his lifetime are too many to list. Jim had a great love and loyalty to his friends and family. He was always available when he was needed, giving his time and energy freely to others. He was a dear and generous friend to many, and for these qualities he will be dearly missed. Jim was known for many sayings, but most notably: "Cash is King", “Buy Land! They're not making it anymore.", "When I'm up, everybody's up!" and "If you can't eat it, don't grow it." If so desired, in lieu of flowers, memorials to the family appreciated, to be used for various charities chosen by the family. Jim's family would like to give a heartfelt thanks for the many thoughts and prayers offered during these difficult times. The family also wishes to thank the staff at Visiting Physicians Association (Dr. Sobolewski, Dr. Rama), Lynnwood of Delafield, Allay Hospice and his favorite caregiver, Darlene G. A Memorial Celebration of Jim's life, and his reuniting with his wife Judy, will be held at the Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 12, 2021, from 4pm to 7pm, with a service at 7pm. According to Jim’s wishes, cremation has taken place. May he rest in peace, at last. "You were a friend to many and will be dearly missed." The family asks you to remember Jim in a way that makes you smile and warms your heart.