James D. Nolan, age 73, died Wednesday, January 22, 2025. He was born in New London on December 11, 1951 to the late David J. and Marie (Fitzgerald) Nolan. James was a U.S. Army veteran. Following his time in the service, he taught middle school math and earth science in Merrill.
James is survived by his children: Jeremiah (Melissa Possley) Nolan of Little Chute and Tammy Nolan of New Orleans, LA; brothers: Terry (Emily), Tim (Beth), JP (Gloria), and Gerry (Lisa) Nolan; sister-in-law, Sandra Nolan; and nieces and nephews: Shane, Ryan, Vera, John, Teri (Greg), Scott, Matt, Lucas, Marcus, Aaron, Jason, Katie, Mary, and Mackey. He is further survived by other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his former wife, Sandra Grambsch; and brother, Tom Nolan.
Jim Nolan lived a life of laughter, love, and adventure. He followed his passions and lived by his rules. His love of the outdoors, sports, cinema, literature, music, and comedy enhanced the lives of those connected to him. He attended the Ice Bowl in 1967. He held three of Weyauwega-Fremont High School’s basketball records for 30 years; Most Points Scored in One Game, Most Points Scored in One Season, and Best Free Throw Percentage for a Career. He acquired his Bachelors of Biology from UW-Oshkosh. Later, he obtained his teacher certification from Ripon College. He spent the best years of his professional life teaching math and science at Prairie River Middle School in Merrill, WI. He loved live music and saw Willie Nelson more than any other artist. Although, his love for The Beatles would be hard to match. In 2004 he was on The Late Show with David Letterman. In 2008 he published a book, Point: The Beer That Made Me Famous. He wrote and pitched screenplays to executives in Hollywood. He wrote songs, he played the guitar, and he sang. He chased his dreams and never abandoned hope that they would come true.
The thing Jim will be remembered for the most, though, is his sense of humor. He was always quick with a one-liner or a joke to make sure we all remember not to take life too seriously. “Forget ‘em if they can’t take a joke.”
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Community Care, The Appleton VA Clinic, Country Villa, and Moments Hospice for their attention and care during Jim’s time with them.
James will be laid to rest at Appleton’s Highland Memorial Park on May 16th. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 17th at GameDay Sports Bar (N225 Stoney Brook Rd, Appleton) from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm. Friends and family are encouraged to attend and share their favorite memories of Jim. To sign the guest book, please visit oconnellfh.com. In lieu of flowers, and to assist with end of life expenses, contributions may be directed to Jeremiah Nolan’s Venmo. Username: Shamzabar, Email: jeremiahnolan13@gmail.com
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
JRR Tolkien
