James “Jim” Frank Danek

James (Jim) Frank Danek, 86, born in Racine, Wisconsin on February 16th, 1938 passed away on June 15th, 2024.  He was preceded in death by his wife Angie (née Theos) and parents Wencil and Mary (née Struhar).  Surviving are his children: Niki, James, Alisa; younger siblings Barbara Martinelli, and Joseph.

Jim was a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated Packers fan and proud Marine.  Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1956 where he was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California.  He recalled a summer when he hitchhiked from California to Racine and met the love of his life, Angie, at North Beach along the shores of Lake Michigan. His career began operating a printing press at the Racine Journal and he worked his way into a career as a Human Resources executive. In his younger days, as a hobby he enjoyed building Heathkit stereos and televisions, and his love for electronics evolved into building computers. In his 60s, 70s, and into his 80s, to the amusement of his family, he enjoyed online gaming.

Jim upheld the values he learned in the Marines: Honor, Courage, and Commitment and instilled these same values into his children. He never quite lost the swagger of a young Marine, but his family knew that beneath that tough guy exterior was a sensitive man with a kind heart.

The Danek children would like to thank the Horizon hospice service and the earth angels at Lawlis Family Hospice for their responsiveness and exceptional care given to us during Jim’s last week on Earth.

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