James W. Engel

James W. Engel, age 87, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024 at Woodland Court Elder Services in Merrill, and while under the care of Compasses Hospice. He was born on January 29, 1937 to the late Otto and Elvira (Krause) Engel in Merrill. James met the love of his life, Jacqueline Belke, and the two were united in marriage in Merrill. Sadly, she preceded him in death on September 18, 2020.

James was a logger at heart, a job that he loved, but he also had worked in road construction during the summer months; he had an incredible work ethic. He and Jackie enjoyed taking road trips. They especially enjoyed traveling to Hawaii and Alaska. James also looked forward to his fishing trips to Canada with his family. He was a true outdoorsman, and was an avid hunter. When he wasn’t outdoors, James liked to gamble at the casinos. He was a generous, understanding and strong-willed man that will be sadly missed.

James is survived by his daughters: Jamie Kalvestran, Jody (Gary Sr.) Granger and Tracy (Fred) Krueger, grandchildren: Linsey (Aaron) Remig, Daniel (Alyssa) Kalvestran, Jeremy Heckendorf, Rod (Jamie) Gennrich and Amber (Corey) Chonsky, great grandchildren: Oliver, Millie & Lainey Kalvestran, Ivy & Etta Gennrich and Caylah, Charlotte & Lillian Chonsky, step-grandchildren: Gary Granger Jr., Germaine Eisel, Gwen Berg, Geralyn Wilcosz and Garrick Granger and sisters: Nancy (Lee) Gille and Darcy Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife: Jackie Engel and great granddaughter: Makena Erickson.

Per James’ request, no formal services will be held at this time.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at Woodland Court and Compasses Hospice for their excellent care.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.