James Thomas Barchus

James Thomas Barchus, age 79, of Milwaukee passed away peacefully in hospice on Friday, October 27, 2023 and is now reunited with his beloved wife Carol eleven years after her passing. He was born November 7, 1943 the son of Ward and Mary Barchus. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Ronald and William.

Affectionately known as Big Jim by his many friends and acquaintances, he was a proud union member during his long career that included work as a factory laborer, crane operator, and truck driver before retiring in 2010. Jim was a friendly and jovial man who was always ready to tell a bad joke to whoever would listen. He was a wonderful cook and was famous for his fish fry and his Sunday breakfasts. Of the many roles Jim had in life, what brought him the most joy was being a grandfather.

Jim is the cherished father of Jamie (Debra) Barchus of Milwaukee, Diana Barchus of Milwaukee, Debby Penzkover of Waukesha, Lisa (Bob) Hallenbeck of Mukwonago, and Angela (Mark) Penzkover of Mukwonago; adored grandfather of Alison, Catherine, Leah, Renee, John, Nicholas, Levi, Sarah, Noah, Kenneth, Hollyanne, Madison, and Lauren; and great-grandfather of Elijah, Liam, Jasper, Jasmine, Alayna, Mallory, Xhale and Chloe. Jim was loved and will be remembered fondly by family and many friends.

At Jim’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service, and his ashes will be buried next to his beloved wife Carol at Oak Knoll Cemetery in Mukwonago during a private family ceremony.