JAMES J. MCKUSKER

      James J. McKusker, 65, Burlington, died unexpectedly Sept. 24, 2014, at his home.

He was born July 9, 1949, in Belle Plaine, Iowa, to the late Carrol ‘Buck’ and Fern (Tuttle) McKusker. His early life was spent on the farm in Iowa. Following high school he graduated, with his BA, from Kirkwood College in Iowa.

On May 11, 1974, he married Donna Marie Voss in Ladora, Iowa. Following marriage they resided in Marengo, Iowa, Haubstadt, Ind., and then in Burlington since 1992. Jim was an engineer, employed by Klements Sausage.

He was proud to have served his country. He did his basic training at Fort Polk and Fort Knox before going overseas to serve in Vietnam in the 101st Airborne and in the 25th Infantry Division. He was very civic minded from day one, the VFW was his passion. He loved his motorcycle and riding with Donna. He was an avid gun enthusiast and enjoyed shooting with his son-in-law. He also enjoyed hunting fishing and golfing. But more than anything he enjoyed his family, especially doting on his new grandson, Kaiden, and granddaughters, Amelia and Taytin.

One very special memory he treasured was when he accompanied his father on the Honor Flight, which meant so much to both of them.

Survivors include his wife; children, Kevin (Tommii) McKusker, Karen McKusker, Krystal (Pete Richter) McKusker, Kyle McKusker; grandchildren, Kaiden McKusker, Amelia McKusker, Taytin Chamberlain; siblings, Julie Phillips, Jerry McKusker, Joan Cuppy, Jeff McKusker; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services are Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 10:30 a.m., at Schuette-Daniels Family Funeral Home, 625 Browns Lake Drive, Burlington. The Rev Ebenezer Insor will officiate. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Monday, Sept. 29, from 4-8 p.m., at the funeral home. Burial will be Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 10 a.m., at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, with full military honors.

Well-wishers can visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.