James "Jim" E. Feiereisen

James “Jim” Feiereisen, of Fond du Lac, peacefully slipped away during the early morning hours of October 6, 2026 at the age of 81. It was his favorite sort of beautiful fall morning, his Milwaukee Brewers were doing well in the postseason, and his Packers had just won that weekend. The time was right for him.

Born in Fond du Lac, Jim was the tenth of twelve children born to Michael and Eleanor (Spellacy) Feiereisen. Jim’s greatest joys were his family, the Wisconsin Northwoods, deer hunting, fishing for the ever-elusive musky, watching the aforementioned Wisconsin sports teams, and his faith. His 31-year career as a firefighter, paramedic, and, ultimately, Battalion Chief for the Fond du Lac Fire Department was something he loved, and he was always grateful to have found his calling in life: serving his community.

A U.S. Marine Corps Corporal and Vietnam veteran, Jim knew a lot about sacrifice, courage, and being a reliable team member. That theme threaded throughout his life as a caregiver for siblings and parents, as a father, and as a grandfather who lived by the example that “being there” is the greatest gift one can give.

Unfortunately, as a grandfather, he also shared stories with his grandkids about getting into trouble as a kid on Lincoln Road in a myriad of ways, including an unfortunate drag-racing experience. The kids loved him even more for all of these.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his daughters, Lori Hawkins (Rob) and Traci Buck (Mike); his bonus sons, Ryan Hall (Melissa) and Brad Hall (Robyn); and his treasured grandchildren, Delaney and Aidan Hawkins, Madeline West, and Hadley Hall. He is also survived by three of his sisters, Sheila Cwikla (Ron), Mary Swingen (Tom), and Gail Fuller (Gordon), as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Kathleen Stahl (Harold), Jack Feiereisen (Shirley), Michael Feiereisen, Joyce Brayton, Gary Feiereisen, David Feiereisen (Dee), Marilyn Schmitz (Dennis), and Patrick Feiereisen (Sue); and in-laws Anthony and Mary Shefka.

Jim approached his final months as he had always approached life’s challenges: with quiet strength and a deep faith that God would not allow him anything more than he could bear.

We, his family, would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and support staff at SSM Health Cancer Care, St. Agnes Hospital, SSM Health at Home Hospice, and St. Francis Home for giving him excellent care, helping to preserve his dignity, and enveloping his family in support. You made all the difference during this very difficult time.

A Catholic Mass celebrating Jim’s life will take place at Holy Family Catholic Community Church (271 Fourth St Way.) on Friday, October 16th at 12:00pm with visitation from 10:00am until 12:00pm. Full military honors will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Family, as this was one of Jim’s final wishes.

The Twohig Funeral Home is serving the family with online guestbook and condolences at www.twohigfunerals.com.