James “Jim” Joseph Bonczkowski, 77, went home to be with his Lord on February 4th, 2020 in Owen, Wisconsin. Jim was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on December 10th, 1942 to the late Raymond and Cecilia (nee: Koraleski) Bonczkowski.  He graduated from Boys Tech High School in 1960.

Jim attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering until 1962, when he enlisted in the United States Air Force.  Jim served as a Physical Therapy Assistant where he provided support to service personnel injured in the Vietnam war.

After his time in the service Jim worked at J.I. Case as a machining supervisor and foundry Quality Manager.  It was there that he met Elizabeth “Betty” DeLaat.  They were married on September 5th, 1981. Jim and Betty moved to North Carolina in 1988 as part of a joint venture between J. I. Case and Cummins.  They moved closer to Milwaukee as their parents aged.  They settled in Racine in 2001.

Jim was gentle and quiet, but he and Betty enjoyed doing many things together.  They doted on their beloved Bichon Frise, (Karlie), who passed two weeks before him.  For a time they bowled in a league, and Jim was elated when his average finally topped Betty’s by one pin. Jim loved to putter and fix things, and Betty loved volunteering his help to friends and family.  It worked out well because Jim liked helping people.

Jim and Betty were very involved in the former Evangelical United Methodist Church, (now Faithbridge).  Jim was often found working around the building.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Betty.  He also leaves behind a daughter, Amy Atkinson and her daughter, Courtney; his son, Jay (Alicia) Bonczkowski with their children Shannon (Shane) Harris and Jamie Bonczkowski.  Jim also leaves behind 3 great-grandchildren, his brother Conrad (Joanne) Bonczkowski, nephew Sean Bonczkowski; niece Emily Bonczkowski; and brother-in-law LeRoy H. Himebaugh. 

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law Alexandra and Edward Marifke; his in-laws, Anthony and Jenidean DeLaat; brother-in-laws Anthony and David DeLaat; and dear friends LeRoy and Florence Himebaugh.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at Faithbridge Church (10402 Northwestern Ave) at 11 a.m. The family will receive guests on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at the church from 10:30 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be private per James’ wishes.