James R Packenham

James “Jim” Ray Packenham, 80, of Rib Lake, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, with family and friends by his side.

Jim was born to Emil and Anne (Brandner) Packenham on June 25, 1945. Jim was a graduate of Rib Lake High School and entered the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17. After completing basic training in California and additional training at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, he served in Vietnam beginning at age 19. During his service, he was with the Bridge Company of the 7th Engineer Battalion, where he worked as a combat engineer and crane operator. He later achieved the rank of Corporal at the age of 20.

While serving his country, he was awarded numerous honors, including the Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Medal, Marksman Rifle Badge, and the Purple Heart. Jim would get together annually with his Marine Corps buddies, which always meant the world to him. In 2022, he was honored to participate in a Never Forgotten Honor Flight, accompanied by his special friend Nancy Mann.

On September 7, 1968, he married Jeanne Klemm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Whittlesey. They resided in Pewaukee, where he worked construction as a heavy equipment operator. In 1971 they returned to Rib Lake, where they bought a dairy farm. Farming was his life’s work and passion, and his legacy will continue with his grandson Jeffrey.

Jim is survived by his children, Todd (Teri) Packenham, Wendy (Brad) Wiese; sisters, Nancy Rogers and Mary (Chuck) Bornhoeft; grandchildren, Jeffrey Packenham, Abby Packenham, Dereck Wiese, and Jared Wiese, along with his special friends Bill and Mary Niggemann.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jeanne, brother Mark (Mary) Packenham, and sister Barbara Packenham.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, February 6, 2026, at Good Sheperd Catholic Church, 513 State Rd., Rib Lake with Father Julian Druffner officiating. He will be laid to rest at a later date at Lakeview Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. Friday at Good Shepherd Catholic Church.

Military honors will be provided by Rib Lake Lehman Clendenning American Legion Post #274 in recognition of his service and sacrifice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James R Packenham, please visit our floral store.