James Andrew Pietila

James (Jim) Pietila was born in Flint Michigan on December 1st, 1935 to Julius and Impie Susan (Stenfors) Pietila. He passed away peacefully on June 8th, 2022 at the age of 86 at the Marshfield Medical Center from a massive stroke. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Pietila and his sister-in-law Edna (Karrs) Pietila

Jim is survived by his wife, brother Gerald "Bill" (Barb) Pietila, three children, thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Jim married Wanda Dembraski 57 years ago on December 26th, 1964 at Bethany, Lutheran Church in Bruce Crossing MI. Jim and Wanda raised three wonderful children here in Minocqua, Susan (Boulder Junction), James (Kingsville, MD) and Jeffrey (North Myrtle Beach, SC). Jim was blessed with thirteen grandchildren, Ashley, Cortney, Macey, Sydney and Zoey (Sue & Greg Ziebart); Eliza, Tess, Noah,Mary and Caleb (Jim & Linda); Avrey, Nina and Tanner (Jeff & Janine), and two great-grandchildren, Michael Charles Hausman III “Cal” (Ashley & Charley) and Sawyer Jayne Hansen (Cortney & Bobby).

Jim served in the US Navy for four years from 1955-1959. He was assigned to the USS Staten Island, he traveled to both the North and South Poles, crossing the equator earning his Shellback “designation.” Jim was very proud of his rapid rise through the ranks and as a young enlisted man becoming a slick arm First Class Radioman (RM1) prior to departing service.

Jim received his Bachelor of Science in Forestry degree from Michigan Technology University in 1964. Jim was employed by the State of Wisconsin Board of Commissioners Public Land (BCPL), and retired after an amazing forty year tenure.

Jim's best times were found spending family time with his children and grandchildren, playing catch, attending a sporting event, fishing, hunting and almost anything outdoors. One of his passions was a competitive game of horseshoes and was well known for his prowess in the pit. He was an active member of the Trinity congregation, previously serving on the church council and ushering during regular services.

Funeral services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Minocqua on June 15th. Visitation will be at 10:00 with a service at 11:00. Military rites will be held after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in memory of Jim, directly to the Trinity Lutheran School in Minocqua.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.