James Emery Wirtz, age 83, of Medina, WI, passed away on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Appleton on May 15, 1942, to the late Emery and Alice Wirtz. He was baptized into the Christian Faith at Zion Lutheran Church, Appleton. Growing up he enjoyed going to the family cottage in Neenah and spending time on Lake Winnebago. He graduated from Appleton West High School in 1960. Jim enlisted in the national guard in 1963, and served our country for 6 years, receiving an honorable discharge in 1969. He worked within the family business, Wirtz’s Beverage and Sporting Goods, until it was sold in 1978. Jim later joined Appleton Asphalt and worked there for over 20 years until his retirement. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and neighbors. Jim was a true gentleman and an avid sportsman. He enjoyed every moment outdoors whether he was snowmobiling, fishing, hunting or ice fishing. He purchased an 8-acre property in Medina in 1971 and immediately applied for a game farm permit. His favorite hobby was his game farm where he cultivated a large garden, grew fruits and vegetables, hatched and raised ducks, pheasants, parrots, and grouse. Jim earned the respect of many friends with similar interests and game farms throughout his life.

He is survived by his sister-in-law Linda Wirtz, a stepbrother Roger (Holly) Schreiber, their daughter Bianca Van and very special friend Linda Gleason. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Emery and Alice, his brother Jerry Wirtz, sister Sandra Wirtz and stepmother Mildred Wirtz.

A funeral service for Jim will take place on Tuesday April 21, 2026, at 11:00am, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior Street, Appleton. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:00am until the service begins. Jim will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Town of Dale Fire and Rescue or Zion Lutheran Church Endowment Fund.