James Herman Schreiber, age 93, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, June 28, 2026. He was born in the Town of Sheboygan on March 2, 1933, to the late Herman and Helen (Seybold) Schreiber.
A proud American from a young age, Jim earned a scholarship and was enrolled in the Army ROTC program at Bowling Green State University, where he earned an accounting degree in 1955. He was a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity. He became a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Army and honorably served his country both home and overseas from 1956-1958. Following his military service, he met his true love, Patricia “Patty” Bemis. On July 8, 1961, Jim and Patty were united in marriage at St. Clement Church and celebrated 55 years together. Living in the Sheboygan area, they raised five children. Jim was active with his family and the community, while maintaining a successful career at the C. Reiss Coal Company. Faith was an important part of his life and guided him throughout.
Serving in Okinawa sparked Jim’s love of travel. He especially enjoyed his trips with Patty to Africa, Greece, and various islands in the Caribbean. He and Patty spent many winters in Estero, Florida, enjoying the beautiful weather and naps in the sun. They eventually purchased a home in the Spring Run community and Jim was truly grateful for all his Spring Run friends. Elkhart Lake was his second home though, with many special summer memories.
He was a sports enthusiast and an avid fan of all Wisconsin teams. He enjoyed competing in sports and was known as a YMCA handball champion and was coined “Mr. Clean” on the water volleyball team. Jim loved music, especially Jazz, and his favorite song was “Girl from Ipanema.” Above all, Jim loved spending time with his family and was an especially proud Papa to his grandchildren. They will remember fondly the big family Sunday dinners that brought everyone together. Papa’s #1-100 game was always a lively competition. The grandkids try and heed his advice, “Have fun, but be good.” He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him and his smile.
Jim is survived by his five children: Lisa (Chris) Lohmann of Boulder, CO; Mary (Michael) Sellinger of Elkhart Lake, WI; Jim (Lisa) Schreiber of Greenwood Village, CO; Steven (Anne) Schreiber of Denver, CO; Tom (Robin) Schreiber of Franklin, TN; 16 grandchildren: Ian Crocker and Tia (Harry) Sinclair-Kemp; Madi and Gwen Lohmann; Elli (Tobia) Martens, Brigitte and Riley Sellinger; Ben, Lucy and Nick Schreiber; Isabel, Olivan, and Amelia Schreiber; Eva, Catherine, and TC Schreiber; four great-grandsons: Rafi, Wilbur and Zephyr Sinclair-Kemp, and the newest baby Theo Martens. He is further survived by his sisters-in-laws Mary Lou Schreiber and Mary Louise “Lulu” (Joel) Lubbers; brother-in-law Richard (Kris) Bemis; step-sister Linda Ottensman, and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his wife Patty, his siblings Donald (Gloria) Schreiber, Audrey (Bill) Griffall, and John Schreiber; his sisters-in-law Rogene Schreiber, Cathy Stayer, Sarah Mabey; his brothers-in-laws Peter Bemis, Steve (Katy) Larson, and Tom Ottensman; and nephew Austen Bemis.
The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff at Rocky Knoll Health Care Center and Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for their wonderful care of Jim and his family. Their warmth and compassion will not be forgotten.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place at St. Clement Catholic Church, 522 New York Ave, Sheboygan, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., with Father Nick Baumgardner officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
A private, family burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sheboygan YMCA, Rocky Knoll Health Care Center, Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice, or a charity of your choice.
Ballhorn Chapels is honored to care for Jim and his family. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting our website at www.ballhornchapels.com.
Comments