James M. Jim Walkush

1940 - 2013

James M. Jim Walkush, 73, of Kenosha, died on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013, at United Hospital Systems Kenosha Hospital Campus.

Born in Kenosha on April 23, 1940, he was the son of the late Roman and Julia (Martell) Walkush. He attended local schools and received his Business Degree from Gateway Technical College.

On June 29, 1985 at St. Marys Catholic Church, he was united in marriage to Kathleen M. Rugg. He was a great step-father to his wonderful step-daughter, Barbara. Kathleen preceded him in death on Feb. 29, 2004.

For 24 years, he was employed as a dispatcher with Snap-On Tools, retiring in 1998. After retirement, Jim began a Medical Escort Service which transported patients to their appointments. 

Throughout his life, he valued his faith. He was a member of St. Marys Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. Jim had a great appreciation for life and he made a lasting impression with his devotion to helping others. Jim was a mentor of many young incarcerated people. With his assistance, Jim gave their life meaning and provided them with the support they needed to acclimate back into society. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Big Brother/Kinship, Decca Foster Grandfather Program, Aurora Medical Center Gift Shop, St. Marys Catholic Church Grief Support Program, and Serra Club. 

He is survived by his step-daughter, Barbara (Steve) Williams of Kenosha; his brother, Thomas J. (Cindy) Walkush of Troy, Mich.; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, Sept. 13, 2013. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 

10 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 7400 39th Avenue. Relatives and friends are asked to meet at the church for the Mass. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. A visitation for Jim will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, Sept. 12, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to the American Heart Association , 660 E Mason St., Ste 200, Milwaukee, WI 53202, would be appreciated.