James “Jim” Milbrath, 77, of Howards Grove, passed away on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, surrounded by his family.
He was born on October 24, 1948 to the late Alvin and Leona (Rients) Milbrath. Jim graduated from Howards Grove High School, Class of 1967. He continued his education at Sheboygan County Teachers College and later at Lakeland College.
On March 4, 1977, Jim was united in marriage to Carol Mae Hanke at Anchors Lanes in Elkhart Lake. He was an active member of Our Shepherd United Church in Howards Grove.
Jim devoted 35 years of his career to teaching in the Random Lake School District. Following his retirement, he continued sharing his love of learning as a substitute teacher for 10 more years in both Howards Grove and Random Lake. He also poured his heart into coaching junior league football, middle school basketball in Random Lake, and high school baseball in Howards Grove. Beyond coaching, Jim truly enjoyed being active in sports himself throughout his life. He was an avid sports fan, spent many days on the golf course, and took great pride in mowing his lawn with his John Deere tractor.
Above all, Jim loved his family deeply. He especially cherished his grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on in all their sports and activities. Whether it was from the sidelines or in conversation afterward, he was their biggest supporter and proudest fan.
Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Carol Mae Milbrath; daughter, Lynn (Seth) Wesener; son, Alan (Jen) Milbrath; and four grandchildren, Kalena (Gage), Korynne (Logan), Caden and Easton; four brothers, Phil (Karen) Milbrath, Dale (Rita) Milbrath, Ben (Rose) Milbrath, and Larry (Faye) Milbrath; sister, June (Gary) Wiegand; sister-in-law, Karen Milbrath; Bette (Otto) Thiel; brother-in-law, Robert (Kathy) Hanke; many nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Stan Milbrath; in-laws, Doc and Doris Hanke.
Visitation will take place on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Zimmer Westview, W2132 Garton Rd., Howards Grove. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. Nathan Athorp officiating.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Rocky Knoll Health Care Center for their kindness and compassionate care.
Zimmer Westview is honored to care for Jim and his family. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting our website at www.zimmerfuneralhome.com.
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