James "Jim" A. Thibedeau

James “Jim” A. Thibedeau died peacefully at Flambeau Hospital on August 27, 2020, in Park Falls, WI, at the age of 86. Jim is survived by wife, Jeanette; children, Patricia Thibedeau and Barbara and David Hegewald; grandchildren, Audryn, Catherine, Garrett, Madison, Matthew, Aaron, and Elizabeth; siblings, Bert Ansorge of Delafield, WI and Beverly O’Donnell of Park Falls, WI; brothers-in-law Don Plein of Phillips, WI and Frank Palko of Mequon, WI, and countless members of his extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Margaret Thibedeau and Betty Diebold and brother Neal Thibedeau. Jim was born on October 29, 1933, in Couderay, WI, to Olive and Arthur Thibedeau, moved to Park Falls, WI, in 1942, and graduated from Park Falls High School in 1951. Jim honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1956-1958 with 16 months in Korea. He married his best friend, the love of his life, Jeanette Palko, in 1959. Jim worked at Flambeau Paper Mill in Park Falls for over 37 years. He was very active in the union where he served as a dedicated officer for over 28 years, including 9 as president. After retirement, Jim became a hardworking part of the Park Falls True Value family for 23 years and enjoyed seeing members of the community on a weekly basis. Jim was a longtime member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. An avid bowler, Jim bowled for over 50 years at Feit’s Lanes in Park Falls where he served as league secretary. Believing in the power of what is now Northwoods Community Credit Union, Jim served on the credit committee for over 19 years. Jim enjoyed sports and played fast-pitch softball and baseball. He was a lifetime Green Bay Packer, Chicago Cubs, and Milwaukee Brewers fan. Jim was a regular at-home contestant on Wheel-of-Fortune and was easily engaged on any discussion involving current events. Anyone who knew Jim, knew that he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family; nothing was more precious to him than his beloved wife, daughters, and grandchildren. His constant displays of unconditional love found him supporting those in need, offering advice after listening, and always encouraging and accepting others at their station in life. He was a kind and loving partner to his wife Jean, as well as a supportive father to his daughters Patricia and Barbara. His kindness, confidence, strength, and quick-witted sense of humor will be missed. A visitation with the family is scheduled for September 11, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Birch Street Funeral Service in Park Falls with a prayer service to begin at 7:00 pm. Jim’ funeral is scheduled for September 12, at 11:00 am at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Father Shaji officiating. Interment will follow at Nola Cemetery in Park Falls, WI, with military rights. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jim’s life with his friends and family. The family would like to thank everyone at Marshfield Clinic and Flambeau Hospital for their compassionate care during Jim’s visits with a special thank you to Dr. Danial and Dr. Kasirye. www.birchstreetfuneralservice.com

James "Jim" A. Thibedeau

October 29, 1933 - August 27, 2020