James “Jim” A. Klimeck, 71, of Rib Lake, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at Rib Lake Health Services under the care of Northshore at Home.

Funeral services for Jim will take place on Friday, October 9, 2026 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Rib Lake with Pastor Kenneth Bittorf officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery (same location).

Jim was born on July 2, 1955 in Medford to John Sr. and Ethel (Bartelt) Klimeck. He attended Rib Lake School District. After schooling, he drove milk truck for a period of time until buying the family farm. He owned and operated a cattle route "Klimeck Trucking" also. He married Sandy Niggemann on February 20, 1976; they were later divorced. After farming he then worked for Weather Shield a few years, then drove semi many years for EJ Peters and Timberline until ill health forced his retirement. Driving semi was his favorite job of all.

He could often be found trying his luck with the lottery, Powerball, and poker machines, or enjoying a drawing at Mohr’s Bar. He looked forward to Friday fish fries, hunting, and loved his 1973 Gran Torino he purchased brand new at a young age! Jim cherished the time he spent with his grandson, family, and longtime friends.

Jim is survived by his children, Sara (Brent) Polzin of Shawano, Stacey (Todd) Labrec of Westboro, Jace (Lacey) Klimeck of Madison, and Autumn Klimeck of Unity; 2 grandsons, Jacob Polzin and Jaxon Klimeck; sister, Penny (Kyle) Mannel. Jim is further survived by many other family and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, John Klimeck Jr. and Marjean Denny.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Jim’s family for use at a later date.