James Clarence DeShaney, age 84, shed his earthly bonds and entered eternity on September 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 10, 1942, in Appleton, WI, to the late James and June (Delorme) DeShaney, the oldest of their four children. He attended Appleton High School and then enlisted in the US Navy. Upon returning from his service, he returned to Appleton and earned his journeyman meatcutter degree.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman. From camping, fishing and hunting to golfing-he did it all. Classic cars quite literally “turned his crank” and he not only collected them but was gifted in restoring them as well. Anything with an engine made Jim happy, he was passionate about model trains and had quite the set up in his basement and was also a regular volunteer at EAA. Jim was a man of simple things: family, enjoyment of a good tune, and love of singing, and sharing a story with friends over a drink. He had a natural gift of gab and never let a memory go untold. Everyone who encountered Jim knew a story about his life.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Judith, his children: Leah DeShaney, Jenna (Dale) Linskens, Joel (Stacey) DeShaney; grandchildren: Trentyn (Sarah) Waring, Hope (Maureen) DeShaney, Jack Linskens. He is further survived by his siblings: Tim (Sue) DeShaney, Phyllis Wereley; brother-in-law James Drew, sister-in-law Sue (Mike) Elliot, as well as other relatives and friends.He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barb Drew, brother-in-law Richard Wereley, and great granddaughter Oaklynn.

A memorial service will take place at 11:00am, on Friday October 23, 2026, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 3009 N Meade Street, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the service begins.

Jim’s family would like to thank all the members of his care team through the last years.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church or Old Glory Honor Flight in Jim’s memory.