James V. Vikre

James “Jim” V. Vikre, age 80, of Ripon, WI, passed away on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI.

Jim was born in Waukegan, IL on June 30, 1945, son of Virgil and Marjorie (Brown) Vikre. He graduated from Waukegan High School and went on to serve our country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Jim worked for many years as an electrician. After retirement Jim went on to work at Ace Hardware in Ripon part time. He enjoyed being able to help anyone that walked in the door.

On November 26, 1989 he married Susan Levonowicz in Waukegan. They both loved fishing with many trips to Lac Vieux Desert, WI. Jim was a classic car enthusiast, an avid bowler, but golf was where he seemed the happiest. Whether it was with his friend Jim Manthie or so many rounds with his step-grandson, Michael Maguire.

In Jim’s last few years with us, he found a very special friend, Gunilla Breniser. Jim’s face just lit up when he talked about her.

Jim is survived by his sister, Christine Tomasiewicz of Beach Park, IL; step-daughter, Heather (Brian) Newcomb of Interlochen, MI; step-son, Jim (Kim) Maguire of Menomonie, WI; step-grandchildren, Michael (Paige) Maguire and Mackenzie Maguire. He is further survived by nieces; nephews; and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Marjorie Vikre; his wife, Susan Vikre; sister, Joyce Marie Holderbaum; and brother, Mark Allen Vikre.

Visitation for Jim will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 12:00 pm until 1:00 pm at Calvary Lutheran Church, 202 S Farmer St, Princeton, WI 54968.

Memorial service for Jim will be held at 1:00 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Princeton, with Rev. Charles Schultz officiating. A memorial is being established in his name.