James Joseph Pihringer passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024 at Shorehaven’s long-term care facility with the love of his life by his side at the age of 99.
James was the first-born child of Joseph and Ruth (Morrissey) Pihringer on Oct. 17, 1925 in Burlington. He attended school in Burlington, and enlisted in the Army Air Corp on July 20, 1943 where he received his pilot’s training during World War II. He was Honorably Discharged on Oct. 31, 1945. His love of flying and airplanes continued throughout his lifetime both in employment and entertainment choices.
Following in his father’s footsteps, he also was employed in the candy business in Southeast Wisconsin until he settled in the men’s clothing business, co-owning and owning businesses in both Burlington and Oconomowoc over his working career.
James met and married Betty Jean Kull in 1951. They lived in Burlington, and had six children. After her death in 1974, he married the love of his life, Marilyn (Swenson) Hoffman in 1975. They moved to Oconomowoc in 1975, where he owned the I. Jacobs clothing store. Throughout his life, James was actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America, holding leadership roles and receiving many awards, the Knights of Columbus for 75 years, and the American Legion for 78 years. He was commander of Oconomowoc’s Legion Color Guard unit, and was selected as Parade Marshal in recent years. He was well respected in his various community service involvements.
Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marilyn; and step-daughter Lynn (Frank) Germanson of Cudahy; sister, Carol of Burlington; and children, Barb (Scott) Molitor, and Judy Fait of Burlington, Jo Hart of Flippin, Arizona, Jacquie (Dan) Gutierrez of San Antonio, Texas, daughter-in-law Denise of Oconomowoc and Robert (Vicky) Pihringer of Hartland. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a great, great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law Kenneth and Betty, sister and brother-in-law Luan and Ralph Luetten, wife Betty Jean and son James M.
Memorial services were held on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in James’s name can be made American Legion Auxiliary Unit 91 for scholarships.
Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home is serving the family. Well-wishers may visit www.schmidtandbartelt.com.
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