James Sheetz

James (Jim) N. Sheetz of Appleton, WI entered into eternal life on October 6, 2025, with his family at his bedside. He was born to Morris and Kathryn Sheetz on April 21, 1938, the oldest of six children. He was raised on his parents' dairy farm in Bremen, IN. In high school he had an interest in electronics, getting his amateur radio license in 1956. Jim set up his amateur radio station or "ham shack" in the barn and from there he communicated with other hams in and around Indiana. This was a hobby that continued his entire life.

Jim earned his Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering in 1960 from Valparaiso Technical Institute. His first job was with Dade Engineering in Indiana. When the company changed hands he was transferred to East Cleveland, Ohio where he met and married Janice Trowbridge in 1965. They moved back to Indiana where he became chief engineer first at a television station located at Lake Central High School, then for the Public Broadcasting station in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jim and Jan moved to Wisconsin in 1972 when he was hired by the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board as Supervisor of Field Engineering for the Wisconsin Public Television and radio network. Over his career he assisted with putting Green Bay TV and FM transmitter site WPNE on air, and built five other TV transmitter sites. Later he added NOAA weather transmitters to the statewide networks. He retired on his birthday in 2001.

Jim and Jan raised their children in Appleton, WI. He was a long-time member of the Sanctuary Choir at First Congregational Church and also sang with the Fox Valleyaires Barbershop Chorus. Jim and Jan Supported the Fox Valley Symphony, attending concerts regularly as season ticket holders.

During Jim's retirement, he and Jan traveled with Kitz and Pfeil Travel Agency to many countries on six continents. Jim's favorite trips were going on safari in Tanzania and getting to Alice Springs, Australia.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Morris and Kathryn, his brother Harry, brother-in-law Max Evans, sister-in-law Julie Sheetz, sister-in-law Karen Sheetz, sister-in-law Dixie Sheetz, brother-in-law Ronald Trowbridge and sister-in-law Mary Ann Trowbridge.

He is survived by his wife Jan of 60 years, son Jeremy (Sorya) of Wildwood, MO, son Jason (Jenny Goff) of Madison, WI, daughter Samantha (Aaron) of Neenah, WI; grandchildren Sovann Sheetz, Seth Johnson, Alexander Johnson, and Siri Johnson; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held on November 1st, 2025 at 3:00 PM at First Congregational Church, 724 East South River St. Appleton, WI