James Pragatz

James Pragatz, 69, of Sheboygan, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Wednesday, November 19, 2014 at Aurora Medical Center in Grafton. Jim was born April 12, 1945 in Chicago, IL to Henry and Bertha (DuPont) Pragacz. He was a graduate of Sturgeon Bay High School, class of 1963. Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Marines from 1963 to 1967. He was employed at Vollrath Company for nearly 40 years until his retirement on April 13, 2008. On June 13, 1981 Jim Pragatz and Donna Williams were united in marriage in Sheboygan Falls. Jim was active in his local union, UAW #1472, for 39 years serving as union president for over 26 years. He was the president for United Way for 2 terms. He also held various offices for the Moose Lodge #438 (now Moose Family Center). He participated in political campaigns and was active with the CAP council. He was active in many leagues in Sheboygan, including softball, darts, bowling, and liar's dice. At the time of his death he served on the fire and police commission for the city of Sheboygan. He also continued to work for the regional UAW doing arbitration reviews. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, who were the love of his life. Jim especially loved traveling, camping, cooking, and socializing with his buddies at the local saloons. In addition to his wife, Donna, he is survived by two children, Dan Pragatz and Amanda (Joe) Beniger; two grandchildren, Jayden and Mason Pragatz; three sisters, Marvel Schmidt, Helen (Larry) Klessig, and Mary (Richard) Dodd; his mother-in-law, Wanda Williams; and many other relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John Pragacz; and his sister, Carol Tanck. A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, November 24, 2014 at St. John's United Church of Christ, 1248 Lincoln Ave, Sheboygan. Rev. Gregory S. Whelton will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held on Monday from 2:00 pm until the time of service at church. A memorial fund has been established in his name. To sign the guestbook, visit www.ballhornchapels.com Jim's family extends a heartfelt thank you to the Sheboygan Fire Department and the caregivers at Auroral Medical Center - Grafton for the care and compassion shown to him. Thanks also to Dr. Kerpe and Carrie for all of their care over the years.

Visitation

2014-11-24
2:00 pm
6:00 pm

St. John's United Church of Christ
1248 Lincoln Avenue
Sheboygan
WI



Memorial Service

2014-11-24
6:00 pm


St. John's United Church of Christ
1248 Lincoln Avenue
Sheboygan
WI