James “Jim” P. Materna

Passed away peacefully from this life to his mansion in the house of the Lord on July 25, 2018 at the age of 59. Doting husband of Kim (née Grace), for 34 years. Devoted father of Jakob and Tayler Materna. Son of John (deceased) and Dorotheann Materna (deceased). Brother of John, Michael, Joseph (deceased), Paul (deceased), Thomas (deceased), and Maureen (deceased). Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A special thank you to the staff at Froedtert Hospital and Cancer Center as well as Angels Grace Hospice for all of the loving care you provided for Jim.

Jim studied the Bible and participated in the martial arts where he gained discipline of the mind and body. He practiced the philosophies learned from Eastern culture—most especially that humility is a gift.

Jim served the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department for 31 years. For many years, Jim was a sniper on the Tactical Enforcement Unit. Over his career, he trained over 1,300 people. He was a field training officer for new officers, taught safety to administrative staff and judges, and he taught Women’s Self-Defense classes. Jim created and held the Ironman competition for Sheriff’s Deputies physical fitness. He set and lead by example and for all. He shaped many minds in the Explorers program. He held himself to the highest standards of responsibility and accountability as husband, father, deputy sheriff, and friend.

For many years, Jim was active in his community. He generously donated his time to Make-A-Wish events, Shop With a Cop at Christmas for underprivileged kids, and Muscular Dystrophy Telethon events.

Jim won The Optimist International Award in 1999 and again in 2016.

He did countless things for the Sheriff’s Department on his own time such as refinishing all the rifle stocks for the department Honor Guard, honing fellow officers knives, and collecting and managing the Sheriff’s Department historical photos and information.

Jim was selfless at work and at home. He gave 100% of himself to everything he did. Jim applied humor in liberal amounts daily in both his personal and professional environments. He had infectious, contagious laughter. He always held his faith in God, and he was devoted to Catholicism—most especially to Mary.

Please see the memorial posted on the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page for additional information about Jim’s career.

Visitation at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin on Thursday, August 2, 2018 from 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM.  Celebration of Life at 6:30 PM.