James Dekker

James H. Dekker, age 80, of Rhinelander died on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at his home with his loving wife Betty at his side. He was born in Rhinelander on June 24, 1931 the son of James and Hazel (Campbell) Dekker. Jim graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1949. He served in the air force as a staff Sergeant and he taught jet mechanics in Amarillo, TX where he met and married the former Betty Taylor on January 22, 1955. After being honorably discharged they moved back to Rhinelander where he joined his father in business at Dekker Service. Jim was a life long member of the First Methodist Church; he served as a past master at the Masonic lodge #242, active Boy Scout Leader and served as a member of Camp Ten Ski Hill Corporation Board. Jim generously donated his time and talents to assisting with the development and maintenance of the Camp Ten Ski Hill for many years. Jim was a true outdoorsman with an adventuresome sole. He loved laughing and spending time with his family, skiing, snowshoeing, camping and canoeing. He enjoyed reading and worked the last sixteen years at Book world.

Jim is survived by his wife Betty, his four children, Thomas (Nancy) Dekker of Rhinelander, Janet (Robert) Dall, Jr. of Hazelhurst, James T (Gretchen) Dekker of New Mexico, Sandra (Scott) Kneser of Wausau, five grandchildren Jesse, Elizabeth, Becky Dekker and Patrick and Bryan Stellick; two sisters Marion Timm and Donna Dekker. He was preceded in death by his sister Lois Lawonn and brother, Edward Dekker.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at 3:00 P.M. at the First United Methodist Church with Pastor Rebecca Niese officiating. Visitation will be at 2:00 P.M. until the time of service at the church. Memorials can be given to First United Methodist Church or the Personal Essentials Pantry or the Emergency Food Pantry. Rhinelander’s Hildebrand Russ Funeral Home (715)365-4343 is assisting the family with arrangements and invites all to sign James’s guestbook at hildebrandfh.com.