James “Jim” Sabatke, age 84, died on July 3, 2015 at the Cedar Creek Manor in Kronenwetter, WI, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Service. Jim was born on July 10, 1930 to the late Gilbert and Florence (Plautz) Sabatke in Merrill, WI. He fell in love and married Elaine Baguhn on August, 7, 1948 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill, WI. She preceded him in death on October 11, 2000.
Jim was a hard-worker and took pride in his work ethic. He drove truck for all of his adult life, first for Semco, then for Ryder for 20 years. Jim was a witty man, with a dry sense of humor. When he wasn’t working, he would enjoy spending time manicuring his lawn and tending to his garden. Jim loved all flowers, but especially roses. Jim loved his family and enjoyed playing with the grandkids and playing jokes on them.
Jim was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Merrill, WI.
Jim is survived by 2 sons, Robert Sabatke, Phoenix, AZ and Steven (Mary) Sabatke, Rothschild, WI; grandchildren, Ryan (Valarie) Sabatke, Nichole (LeRoy) Miller and Emma (Corey) Thompson; great grandchildren, Olivia Miller, Cayden Thompson, Addelyn Sabatke and Avery Miller, along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Florence Sabatke; his wife, Elaine Sabatke and his daughter, Susan Sabatke.
A Memorial Service for Jim will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 11AM at Faith Lutheran Church in Merrill, WI. Visitation will be on Friday, July 10, 2015 from 5PM-8PM at Waid Funeral Home, and also on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 10AM until the time of the service at the church. Pastor Kevin Hoogland will officiate. Inurnment will be held at Snow Hill Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, family asks that memorials be sent in Jim’s name to Faith Lutheran Church in Merrill, WI.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.