James “Jim” Koch Breckenfeld, 95, of Winthrop Harbor, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Rolling Hills Manor/Allure of Zion.
Born August 3, 1928, in Racine, WI, he was the son of the late William “Bill” and Clara (Koch) Breckenfeld.
He served in the United States Army until he was honorably discharged in 1957.
On September 6, 1952, he married June Bloedel in Kenosha, WI. She preceded him in death on October 15, 1993.
He called his “Dream Job” OMC-Johnson Motors in Waukegan, IL for 37 years. Jim was the Lead Technician on the 1971 Johnson Pegasus snowmobile which set a world speed record of 140.625 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. He was Manager of the OMC Racing Group based in Brugge, Belgium which was one of the highlights of his career. Jim started Stateline Storage in Winthrop Harbor, IL with his best friend, Gordy. He stayed with the business for approximately 10 years.
Jim was a hard worker and dedicated family man. He enjoyed life to its fullest with his love for animals, camping, boating, snowmobiling and traveling the world. From Illinois to Washington, Alaska, California and Wisconsin. He would always be onboard for a road trip to help his daughter move with her job. Later in life, splitting and burning wood was his favorite hobby. You could find him and his son helping neighbors or co-workers in cutting down their trees.
While we lost our most beloved Dad, many have lost a friend and loved one in him. He has been a rock to many, with his contagious laugh to his many pranks and humor. He was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone.
Jim is survived by his two loving children, Linda (Chris Nelson) Breckenfeld of Franksville, WI, and Kevin (Margie) Breckenfeld of Pleasant Prairie, WI; and six grandchildren, Matthew, Heather, and Nikolas Nelson, and Eric, James, and Quayshaun Breckenfeld; and one great-grandson, Luke.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and two brothers, Howard Breckenfeld, and Herbert “Jack” Breckenfeld.
Our heartfelt thanks to all of the nursing staff at Rolling Hills Manor/Allure of Zion for their kindness, loving care and friendship so freely given to our Dad.
Private family services were held per Jim’s wishes.
He would want all who knew him to remember or share a funny moment or story and take a moment to laugh.
You can celebrate Jim’s life by donating to the “Safe Harbor Humane Society” in his name.
