James Ely

James “Jim” R. Ely, age 85, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, after a brief illness, he joins his beloved wife, Linda, in Heaven. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and laughter.

Born on October 12, 1940, to the late Jarvis and Alphild (Swanson) Ely, Jim was born and raised in Superior, Wisconsin. During his youth Jim spent his summers on Lake Nebagamon. And during the winter he played hockey and went on to play semi-professionally.  

Jim earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Superior. It was during college while shopping at an art supply store that he met the love of his life Linda Chase, a fellow Art Education major. Jim and Linda married on July 24,1965, in Superior, Wisconsin, and they went on to have two daughters.

Jim proudly dedicated much of his professional life to art education at Oshkosh North High School. As an art teacher and ceramic artist Jim spent his life sharing his love of art with students, family, and friends. His talent with clay was matched only by his gift for teaching—encouraging others to see beauty, take risks, and find joy in creating. Many will remember him not just for what he taught, but for how he taught it: with patience, humor, and genuine care.

Jim also enjoyed coaching track and serving as President and Chief Negotiator for the Oshkosh Teachers’ Union. Later, he continued his career at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.  Jim and Linda spent many summers in Door County where they co-owned the gallery Serendipity with friends.

Once retired they continued to spend their summers in Door County and Jim remained very active and engaged in his many hobbies. He enjoyed working at Peninsula State Park Golf Course and drove the Zamboni for the Tri-County Ice Arena. He was an avid golfer, boater, and ice skater. Jim also enjoyed tackling numerous home and garden projects and cooking for family and friends. He also traveled extensively with Linda throughout Door County and across the country.

Jim had a great sense of humor, was incredibly kind, and fiercely loyal. He had a way of making people feel at ease, often through a well-timed joke or a quiet act of support. He believed deeply in showing up for the people he loved, and he did so consistently and wholeheartedly.

Above all, Jim was an exceptional husband, dad, grandfather, father-in-law, and great grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. He was a steady presence, a trusted guide, and a source of endless encouragement and pride. Jim especially enjoyed watching his daughters and grandchildren participate in sports, school, and community activities.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit lives on in the art he created, the students he inspired, and the family and friends who were lucky enough to love him. Jim is survived by his children, Heather (Todd) Olson, and Kristin (Rob) Ely-Bluemke; his grandchildren, Gage and McKenna Olson and Emerson and Elliot Bluemke; and his great-grandchild, Aurora Olson.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda (Chase) Ely, his parents, and his brother, Jack Ely.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 809 S. Commercial Street, Neenah, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, the American Red Cross, or the Neenah Animal Shelter.