James “Jim” A. Badtke, age 85, of Ripon, WI, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Markesan Resident Home in Markesan, WI, with his loving family by his side.

Jim was born in Ripon on June 12, 1940, son of Arnold and Dorothy (Quick) Badtke. He attended Ripon High School and married the love of his life, Sandra, on June 30, 1962. Together, they raised four children and worked hard on their family farm. Jim was a dedicated crop and dairy farmer and also raised various livestock throughout his life. In his youth, he was active in 4-H and enjoyed showing animals, a passion that carried with him through the years. He was involved with the Fond du Lac County Farm Bureau, and he made time to play dart ball and cards. Jim and Sandy loved to travel together, cherishing the many places they visited. In their younger years, they also enjoyed snowmobiling with many friends. He was a lifelong member of Our Saviors United Church of Christ in Ripon and held his faith close to his heart.

Jim is survived by his four children, daughter, Debra Eiler; three sons, DuWayne (Amy) Badtke, Brian (Janice) Badtke, and Peter (Lori) Badtke; grandchildren, Nicole (Jon), Cody (Vanessa), Ethan (fiancée, Lindsey), Isabelle, Mitch (Amanda), Ronald, Kaylin, Kasie, and Sarah; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Caroline Retzlaff; brother, Tom Badtke; three brothers-in-law, Ron, Terry (Tammy), and Gary Liptow; a sister-in-law, Julie (Steve) Meilahn; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sandra Badtke; parents, Arnold and Dorothy Badtke; his in-laws, Ralph and Arlene Liptow; a grandson, Joshua Eiler; a son-in-law, David Eiler; a brother-in-law, Don Retzlaff; and four sisters-in-law, Sara, Noreen, and Mary Liptow, and Doreen Badtke.

Visitation for Jim will be held from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Our Saviours United Church of Christ, 343 Scott St., Ripon, WI 54971.

Funeral service for Jim will take place at 4:00 pm on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Our Saviours United Church of Christ in Ripon, with Rev. Dr. Kevin P. Mundell officiating. You may view a livestream of the service at 4:00 pm by visiting this link LIVESTREAM. Interment will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, December 1, 2025 at Nepeuskun Cemetery, Town of Nepeuskun. A memorial is being established in his name.