Obituary for James R. "Jim" Quinn

James "Jim" Quinn, beloved husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026. Born on November 8, 1935, in La Crosse to Vernie and Cassie (Braaten) Quinn. Jim was a man who walked through life quietly, never seeking the spotlight and never asking for recognition, yet leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met. He lived a life rooted in faith, love of family, and service to others and left a legacy not of grand gestures or lofty titles, but of something far more lasting – genuine kindness, quiet dignity, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved and those in need.

From the very beginning, faith was the foundation of Jim’s life. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church, and that relationship with God never wavered. Jim was a devoted member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where he served actively on several committees and gave generously of his time as a volunteer. He believed in living out his faith not just on Sundays, but every day through acts of kindness he showed to those around him.

Jim graduated from La Crosse Logan High School in 1953, and anyone who spent time with him knew exactly how he felt about where he came from. He carried his roots like a badge of honor and captured the pride he had in the community he grew up in with the line he loved to deliver: "There are two types of people in this world – those that live on the Northside and those who wish they did." He furthered his education at Milwaukee Vocational School, studying drafting. He honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1956, including 16 meaningful months stationed in Germany. Following his honorable military service, Jim built a distinguished career with the Trane Company. Every day for 40 years, Jim brought his talents, tireless work ethic, and quiet professionalism to his craft as a draftsman until his retirement in 1997.

On December 20, 1958, Jim’s life was made complete when he married the love of his life, Janice Kapanke, at St. Peter's Church in Chaseburg. They shared 66 years of marriage together and built a life centered on faith and family. Jim’s greatest joy was spending time with his family and sharing in their lives. He is survived by his cherished and loving wife, Janice, who was the center of his universe. Jim also leaves behind his daughter, Sue (Mark) Raymond; his sons, Kevin (Wendy) Quinn and Kyle Quinn; and his adored grandchildren, Ashley (Darrin) Witt, Abby Raymond (Jeremy Juen), Caroline Quinn and Delaney Quinn.

Jim was an avid sports fan who loved nothing more than cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packer and Milwaukee Brewers and his adopted Boston Red Sox. He took great joy in traveling the country each summer to visit Major League ballparks, and he brought a passion to every game that made watching sports with him an absolute joy. Beyond cheering from the stands, Jim was a talented athlete in his own right, competing in multiple sports in high school and playing fast-pitch softball in the Classic League. He also had a love for fishing and spent countless hours on the water and on the ice enjoying the beauty of nature and the simple pleasure of having a line in the water.

Those who knew Jim best will tell you that he was one of a kind – a generous and selfless man of unshakeable integrity who would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought and somehow make you feel like you were doing him the favor by accepting it. He looked for and found the best in everyone he met and never said an unkind word. Jim didn't seek attention or accolades. His currency was something far more valuable – the quiet, consistent, daily choice to be good, to be kind, and to be present for the people he loved. And because of that, every single person whose life he touched is immeasurably richer for having known him.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4141 Mormon Coulee Road, La Crosse, with a visitation from 10am until the time of service. Pastor Harald Bringsjord will preside. A luncheon at the Moose Lodge, 1932 Ward Avenue, La Crosse, will immediately follow the service. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

The family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Paul Molling for his many years of compassionate care and to the many staff members and friends at the Willows Assisted Living Community, Riverside Transitional Care, and Agrace Hospice.

Online condolences can be offered to the family at this site.