James Lee “Whiskers” Schumacher, 80, of Eland, died July 23, 2025, at House of the Dove hospice in Marshfield.
James was born June 9, 1945, in Ludington, Michigan, the son of Harry and Josephine (Kammers) Schumacher. He had six siblings, Roger, Cleo, Donald, Janet, Carol and Dennis. He graduated from St. Simon High School in Ludington.
James moved to Wisconsin in 1963. He worked at the Harley-Davidson factory in Milwaukee while completing a bachelor’s degree in teaching from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
On June 15, 1968, James was united in marriage to Laurel Panko at St. Philomena Catholic Church in Birnamwood. She preceded him in death on Sept. 16, 2019.
James worked at Marathon Electric in Wausau for many years and owned a mobile retail business with Laurel. They sold new merchandise at flea markets, fairs, sport shows and other events.
James lived a full and meaningful life rooted in family, friendship and the simple joys of the outdoors. He was an avid hunter — both bow and gun — and found peace in the woods. James was a member of the local Poke N Hope bow hunting gang.
In his younger years, James enjoyed fishing and was in a bowling league, where he made many lasting friendships. James was a Brewers and Badgers fan and enjoyed getting in on the football pools.
James is survived by twin sons, Joseph Schumacher of Eugene, Oregon, and Jeffrey Schumacher, of Eland.
James was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and all of his brothers and sisters.
A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at Holy Family-St. William Catholic Church in Wittenberg. The Rev. Mark Rydell will officiate. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church.
