James "Jim" J. Ferkovich

James “Jim” J. Ferkovich age 79, of Park Falls passed peacefully on Friday February 17, 2023 at the Waterford at Park Falls. He was born on June 22, 1943 in Park Falls, the son of Frank and Norma (Keller) Ferkovich. After graduating from Lincoln High School in Park Falls, he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. He later received his Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. During his studies he married his high school sweetheart, Janalee Wollerman on June 29, 1963. The newlyweds moved to LaCrosse, building their lives together while Jim finished his degree. In 1975 they moved back to Park Falls to raise their three beautiful children closer to their families. Jim’s long career was spent as a social worker for various counties, counseling centers and hospice agencies. He was an exceptionally caring man who loved helping others, especially children, selflessly spending time as a foster parent and Big Brother. In his free time, Jim loved to bird hunt, fish and garage sale with is kids and grandkids. He was also an avid golfer and member of the Park Falls Country Club. Most of all Jim loved spending time with his family gathering for meals, playing cards, and especially enjoying a sweet treat for dessert (or anytime). He is survived by his wife Janalee of Park Falls, (3)children; Chris Ferkovich of Ashland, Jay (Stacy) Ferkovich of Green Bay, Heidi (Bruce) Peterson of Park Falls, (5)grandchildren: Casey (Mark) Roeder of Milwaukee, Savannah (Patrick) Canik of Park Falls, Noah Peterson of Madison, Aaron and Katerina Ferkovich of Green Bay, (2)sisters; Carol (Bob) Little of Park Falls, Laurie Herbst of Tomah, (2)sisters-in-law; Jill Paddock of West Bend and Charmaine MacQuade of New Albany, IN. and by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and (2)brothers-in-law; Clayton Wollerman and Jim Herbst. A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday February 25, 2023 at First Congregational Church in Park Falls. Pastor Emerson Coy is officiating. A visitation is being held from 10:00am until the hour of the service at the church. The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to Erin O’Grady a special caregiver and friend who got us through and became family, the staffs of both the Waterford-Magnolia Trails and Marshfield Medical Center Park Falls Home Health and Hospice for their care of our husband, father and papa and for all the friendships we made along the way. Thank you so much! Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family. www.birchstreetfuneralservice.com

James "Jim" J. Ferkovich

June 22, 1943 - February 17, 2023