James L. Feavel

James “Feav” Feavel, age 78 of Appleton, WI passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 20, 2024. He was born to Jack and Angie (née Parker) Feavel on August 3, 1945 in Appleton, WI. He married Patti Feavel on June 29, 1993. Jim has two children from a previous marriage: Lisa Derfus and Shannon Abernathy.

Jim attended Xavier High School in Appleton from 1959 until 1963, Layton School of Art in Milwaukee from 1965 until 1967 obtaining a Fine Art degree in Photography, University of Oshkosh from 1968 until 1971 obtaining a Bachelor of Science in English and Education, cum laude, and University of Oshkosh in 1972 obtaining his Master of Science in English.

Jim worked proudly for 33 years in Education as a teacher in English and Photography. For 28 of those years, he taught at Berlin High School and was a strong teacher union representative. He was very active in students’ lives and was beloved by many. Jim was a member of MENSA and enjoyed all kinds of trivia and trivia contests. He loved reading, golf, watching Jeopardy and most of all telling stories and jokes while enjoying a cocktail or two! More than anything, though, Jim loved his family. He was so proud of his children and grandchildren.

Jim will be deeply missed by his wife Patti (née Petit) and children, Lisa (Paul) Derfus, Shannon (Kevin) Abernathy; his grandchildren, Bobby Derfus (Cameron), Olivia Derfus (fiancé Gavin), Zechariah Abernathy, and Ezra Abernathy; his niece Jennifer (Doug) Gieryn; his great nephew Reed Gieryn; his great niece Kelly Gieryn; his mother-in-law Judy Petit; his brother-in-law Reggie (Kristi) Kallin as well as many other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Angie Feavel; his brother, John (Spence) Feavel; and his sister-in-law, Yvonne Feavel.

Per Jim’s wishes a funeral and memorial visitation will not be held for him. In his words “Just have a party and have fun”. A celebration of life will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Stone Toad Bar and Grill 1109 Oneida St, Menasha, WI 54952. In accordance with Jim’s wishes, please wear shorts and be comfortable! He was not a fan of getting dressed up and being uncomfortable. He wore shorts at his wedding and would like everyone to be comfortable to celebrate him.

Jim and his family would like to thank the kind nurses, doctors, and other staff at ThedaCare and ThedaCare At Home Hospice, for all their care and compassion shown to Jim over the last several months.