James "Jim" William Krenzke's Obituary
Mount Pleasant – James “Jim” William Krenzke, 88, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Aurora Medical Center–Mount Pleasant.
Jim was born on September 28, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Earl and Dolores (née Sack) Krenzke. He proudly served his country in the United States Naval Reserves for 12 years. Jim devoted 40 years of his working life as an assembly worker at Twin Disc in Racine, retiring in April of 1999. On September 8, 1962, Jim was united in marriage to the love of his life, Hope Kaminskis, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Racine. He was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.
Jim was deeply involved in the Racine Moose Lodge, where he served as an administrator. He especially cherished his Tuesday afternoon card games, something he always looked forward to and made sure to attend whenever possible. When his sons were young, Jim was an active leader in Boy Scout Troop 142, proudly serving as a den leader, cub leader, and scoutmaster, mentoring and guiding many young scouts along the way.
Jim enjoyed camping, woodworking, gardening, and was known as a true grill master. He took great pride in his garden and was always generous in sharing his harvests with family and friends. He also enjoyed bowling and dart ball, spending many years sharing laughter and good times with a wide circle of friends. A natural jokester, Jim loved making others smile and laugh. He and Hope were also well known for hosting memorable annual Fourth of July parties that brought everyone together year after year.
Jim will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 63 years, Hope Krenzke; his children, Michael (Vivian) Krenzke, Fred (Jenn) Krenzke, and Christine (Daniel) Flores; his grandchildren, Luci, Kyler, Zachary, Andie, Gracie, Haydn, Ethan, Ray, Cheyenne, Matt, and Alex; and his great-grandchild, Ella. He is further survived by his sister, Patricia (John) Carré; his brother-in-law, Garret Kaminskis; along with many other relatives and dear friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Therese Bryhtan; his brother, William Krenzke; his brother-in-law, Robert Kaminskis; and his sister-in-law, Joan, and dear friend, Bill Widmar.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Wilson Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. An additional visitation will take place on Friday at the funeral home from 10:30 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. Interment with committal services will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. A luncheon will be held at Wilson Funeral Home following services at West Lawn Memorial Park.
What’s your fondest memory of James "Jim"?
What’s a lesson you learned from James "Jim"?
Share a story where James "Jim"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James "Jim" you’ll never forget.
How did James "Jim" make you smile?
