James was born in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, on March 31, 1927, the son of Walter and Irma (Kegel) Mandel. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, from which he subsequently received an honorable discharge. Jim lived and worked in both Manitowoc and Milwaukee before moving to Wabeno where he had been a resident ever since.
On November 11, 1961, he married Florence Collins, who preceded him in death in November of 1975. In 1982, Jim retired from Adams Trucking in Wabeno. He enjoyed the outdoors, and was right at home fishing, hunting, driving, and hiking in the woods. When he could not be outside, he was content to lounge in his rocker and watch the wildlife outside his living room window. He will always be remembered for the outstanding father, grandfather and friend that he was.
Jim is survived by: three daughters, Nelda Jameson and Pat Kuse of Wabeno and Judy Bailey of Illinois; three sons: William (Joan) Bailey of Florida, Marvin (Betty) Bailey of Wabeno and Gary Bailey of Germany; two sisters: Claire (Charles) Gibson of Gurnee, Ill., and Audrey (Bill) Fries of Fremont, Mich.; one brother: Ken (Clarice) Mandel of Madison; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence, his parents, two daughters, Cindy Flegel and Betty Bailey; and a granddaughter, Veronica Duchaine. Private funeral services were held with Suminiski Funeral Home of Wabeno serving the family.