James Roger Staffeil 1950-2021
Jim Staffeil, 71, of Medford, passed away on Friday, May 21, 2021 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital after a battle with health complications. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at Community United Church of Christ at 510 E. Broadway, Medford, Pastor Mary Jo Laabs will preside. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of service at the church.
Jim was born on January 4, 1950 in the family farmhouse to the late Roger Staffeil and Grace (Hertz) Staffeil. He was the second born of seven children and worked on the family farm; which he later purchased from his parents and passed on to his children. He graduated from Colby High School in 1968.
Jim married Cheryl “Cheri” Beste on May 13, 1972. They had two children, a daughter (Tonia) and son (Daniel) while making Medford their home. Jim worked for Melvin Companies for 30 years and then Midway Steel before retiring. In retirement Jim enjoyed growing his garden, larger each year, while always bringing family and friends fresh vegetables. He and Cheri enjoyed traveling. Jim’s favorite destination was Las Vegas. For many years “making wood” was a favorite pastime much to Cheri’s and his children’s chagrin. Many tales were shared around the holidays about the many escapades that occurred while “making wood.”
Jim loved, Loved, LOVED talking politics, providing his opinion to get a rise out of others, especially his children. He was always telling jokes, making others laugh, and willing to give a helping hand. Jim enjoyed being part of a large family and spent as much time with family members as he could. There was always a family event to attend.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Cheri; and their two children, Tonia (Ron) Gilray, Daniel (Erika) Staffeil; and six grandchildren, Peyton and Madison Gilray, Cole and Jenna Butalla, Brooke Murphy and Klaire Staffeil; his siblings, Diane Slowiak, Cheryl (Kenny) Barrick, Carol (Herb) Chapman, Jeff (Lisa) Staffeil and Kevin Staffeil; brothers-inlaw, Tom Schmitz, David (Jane) Beste; sisters-in-law, Sally (Tom) Frey, Renee (Jack) DeHavan, Sue (Dick) Schimelfenyg, Lynne Sparks; and many nieces; and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharon Schmitz; brother-in-law, Terry Slowiak; and his mother and father-in-law, Roman and Julianne Beste.
Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and case managers at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for the care they provided Jim throughout his stay. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Medford VFW in memory of Jim.
Paid Obituary 105587
