James Edward Netzler, 78, of Wittenberg, WI, lovingly known as “Jim” and “Jimmy,” passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, surrounded by his devoted wife and loving family.
Jim was born on May 16, 1948, in Iola, WI, to Simon and Malinda (Olson) Netzler. Growing up in rural Iola, he spent much of his time helping with farm chores while also developing a lifelong love for fishing and hunting. He graduated from Iola-Scandinavia High School, where he played football, excelled in basketball, and participated in track and field. Following high school and a short stint at a pickle plant, Jim began his career with Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative (CWEC).
It was during the summer of 1966 that Jim met Maribeth “Mary” Countney at a dance. After dating for several years, they were married on June 21, 1969, at St. Therese Catholic Church, beginning a 57-year marriage filled with family, friendship, and countless memories.
Jim’s career with CWEC continued to grow over the years. He started as an apprentice lineman and, by August of 1970, became a First-Class Lineman before later earning the position of Journeyman Lineman. In 1977, Jim accepted a promotion as Line Foreman for Wittenberg and the surrounding areas. On May 1, 2006, he also became a Field Engineer for the area. Jim retired from CWEC in June of 2012 after dedicating 46 years of service to the cooperative and the communities he proudly served.
Throughout his adult life, Jim’s passion for sports never faded. He played BABA basketball, bowled for many years, and participated on both fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball teams. Whether competing himself or cheering others on, sports remained one of his greatest joys.
One of Jim’s proudest accomplishments was purchasing land and building a three-bedroom ranch house for his family. It became the backdrop for countless family and friend gatherings filled with delicious meals, card playing, laughter, and 45 years of wonderful memories with Mary and their children, as they grew up.
Jim will always be remembered as an avid outdoorsman, a hardworking man, and a strong believer in his Christian faith. He faithfully served as president of his church congregation at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Iola. After moving to Wittenberg, he joined the church council and was a trustee for Redeemer Lutheran Church, dedicating his time and leadership to his church family and community. To know Jim was to know his strength, perseverance, kindness, and deep love for those around him.
Above all else, Jim cherished his family. He shared 57 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary. He treasured watching his two children grow up and took immense pride in the lives they built. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his granddaughter, Siri. Watching her grow up, and reading the Bible to her, brought him endless happiness. Whenever his family gathered together, Jim always seemed to have an extra sparkle in his eyes.
Jim is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Netzler; his children, Adam James Netzler of Schofield, WI, and Megal Marie (Steve) Specht of Sheboygan, WI; as well as his cherished granddaughter, Siri Lagem Specht of Sheboygan, WI. He is further survived by his brother, Ronald (Marlene) Netzler of Waupaca, WI; his sister, Mary Lynn Kubiak of North Liberty, IA; along with several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; Paul (Debbie) Countney of Appleton, WI; Patricia Torres of Combined Locks, WI; Bill (Nancy) Countney of Greenville, WI; Susan Morack of New London, WI; Kathy (Don) Behnke of Appleton, WI; Vicky Countney of Appleton, WI; Charles (Barb) Countney of Appleton, WI; many relatives, 3 step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, dear friends, and former coworkers.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Malinda (Olson) Netzler, and his parents-in-law, Ned and Myrtle (Demeny) Countney. Myrtle’s adopted daughter, Barbara Demeny-Holzman; brothers in law, Larry Kubiak, Louis Torres, Don Morack, James Countney and Mark Countney. He is also preceded in death by aunts, uncles, a step-grandchild, a niece, relatives, and dear friends.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wittenberg, WI. Lay Minister Pete Krolow will officiate. Visitation will be on Saturday, from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the church.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care and support shown to Jim and his family during this difficult time.
