James Slewitzke

James Michael Slewitzke, age 88, passed in his home in Lakewood on February 3, 2022. He was born on April 3, 1933 in Merrill, Wisconsin. He grew up on a dairy farm in rural Merrill where he also attended school until age 17 when he enlisted in the US Army. While in the Army, he spent 2 1/2 of his 3 years in Germany during the Korean War where he primarily drove the Jeep for his commander.

After returning to Merrill, James finished his high school requirements and earned his diploma. He continued to help on the farm and work odd jobs including driving a tour car for Yellowstone National Park.  He went on to Milwaukee to attend school for metallurgy.

In 1956, Jim went on a blind date with Bettymae.  They dated for a few months before he proposed. That date lasted for 62 wonderful years! This was always his favorite story to tell! They were made for each other!

After marrying Betty, they moved to Milwaukee, where Jim worked in a foundry, to start their life together. After 8 years and 4 children, Jim moved the family to Colorado where he continued the foundry work. In the early 70’s Jim changed careers and became an insurance agent for American Family Insurance. He worked with this company until retirement in 1999.

Jim was always tinkering with wood, metal, cars and whatever sparked his interest. The family enjoyed the outdoors and travel.  He and Betty were active in the Catholic Church and enjoyed catering for church events together. This love of cooking and serving others followed them in retirement where they would volunteer to occasionally cook meals at the school in Red Feather Lakes.

James is survived by his sister Rita Daley, his 4  children Mark, Paul, Kathy and Patty, ten  grand children and 9 great grandchildren.Those Jim will meet in heaven include his wife Betty, his parents, Ed and Elizabeth Slewitzke, his brothers David and Dennis Slewitzke, his niece Christa and 2 grandchildren Naomi and Corey.

Jim’s legacy will be celebrated on Monday, March 21 at 11:30 AM at Horan and McConaty, 3101 South Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, Colorado.  Interment will follow at 1:15 pm at Fort Logan National Cemetery.

Donations in Jim’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association to the team Witz End.

Please share memories and condolences with Jim's family by signing the Tribute Wall.