James H. Hunter

James H. Hunter, 83, of Sparta, died on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at Gundersen Lutheran Health Systems in La Crosse after a short but courageous battle with cancer.  He was born on March 15, 1940 to Samuel and Elma (Whitney) Hunter, in Portage. After graduating from Portage High School, James attended Madison Technical College and graduated with an Associates Degree in electronics.

James married Charlene Crisci on December 16, 1972, in Rockford, IL. He worked as a General Manager and Special Projects Manager at Universal Telephone and Centurytel for 42 years, until his retirement in 2003.

James was a very active member of the Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses and enjoyed sharing his beliefs with others. He used his electronics background as a member of the Regional Building Committee, helping to build and maintain many places of worship for his faith.  He was also a member of the West Central Model Railroad Club. Jim’s love of trains led to many mini vacations and travel experiences aboard dinner trains. 

James also enjoyed spending time with his wife, while attending theater and musical productions. He loved nature and could often be found feeding the wildlife and birds in his backyard or tending to the many flower beds and gardens around his house. Jim was a kind and caring person, often referred to as Jimpa by the children receiving care at Tiny Town Daycare. 

James is survived by his wife, Charlene, of Sparta; Children, Keith (Paula) Stenback of Cataract, Alyse (David) Gerard of Cherry Valley, IL, Melinda (Shane) Gardner of Evansville, WI, and Adam (Melanie) Hunter, of Sparta; grandchildren, Ben, Leah, Shane, Alayna, Bronwyn,

Kari, Sam, Elizabeth, and Jake; and sister, Beth (John) Murray of Portage, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Elma Hunter; sister, Joyce Schultz; brother, Pat Hunter; sons, Jimmy Scott and Mark Hunter; and granddaughter, Caitlyn Hunter.

A memorial talk will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023 at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Sparta. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Friday at the hall. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

To zoom this event, please see the Zoom login information below:

Meeting ID

455 762 2933

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Daniel9:25

Dial In Number

312-626-6799

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https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4557622933?pwd=TVlmeVRBelljL3ppQWdyT0xhUGp6dz09

Lanhm-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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