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.
Oh Betty. I am so sorry for your loss of Jim! You two were a great team and he was a good husband to you. As well, you were a loving, caring, best friend and wife to him. May he Rest In Peace and may God comfort you. Lots of hugs and love, Ms. Betty!
Jim, you we my very good friend for the years we work at J. I. Case. I remember that time with warm thoughts and an occasional shenanigan. We all know that God doesn’t make mistakes. I’ll miss you Bonz.
May your family find God’s peace in your passing and know to be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord.
Amy and Jay – so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. We always had some good times growing up in the old neighborhood. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Any I am sorry to hear about your dads passing. May your memories always make you smile.
Amy and Jay, I am so very sorry to hear of your Father’s passing. He was always a fun guy growing up. We had many memories in the neighborhood. Please know that we are thinking of you and praying for you.
Betty,
We are soo sorry for your loss. Jim had a great sense of humor & we enjoyed visiting with him at church. He was multi talented & did electric work for us at our house. He was always so laid back & showed his love for you in soo many ways. We will miss him.
May God give you strength at this difficult time. Hugs, love & prayers. BOB & CAROL HAIDER ❤️❤️🙏
Dear, dear Betty: Our heartfelt condolences at this time of sorrow. Jim was certainly a “gentle giant.” We were so blessed to have him in our lives. You both are so special to us. May our Lord comfort you and keep you in His peace. Much love and many prayers, Ron and Barbara
Hello Betty,
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband. I remember you often talking about him, and I could sense your closeness. Your memories will confort and sustain you. You certainly have my condolences.