JAMES VAN GOMPEL
June 29, 1952 - February 20, 2011
Obituary
James Clement Van Gompel of Pine River, age 58, died Sunday, February 20, 2011 at Cherry Meadows. He was born June 29, 1952 in Neenah, the son of Clement and Agnes (Verkuilen) Van Gompel. Jim graduated in 1971 from St. Marys High School, Menasha and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, council 1838. He was also a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, and a member of the American Tree Farmers Association. He worked at American National Can, and retired from Pechiney. Jims enjoyment of the outdoors was vast and spanned his lifetime. He was a strong advocate of conservation. Wildlife management and environmental ethics was his way of life. Whether hunting, backpacking, canoeing, planting trees, protecting wild flowers, fishing in a mountain stream, or providing feed for birds, Jim had a spiritual love with nature. In solitude he found great peace, however his greatest joy was sharing, educating, and introducing others to Gods beauty. He is survived by his daughter Amanda (Thomas) McNamara; parents: Clement and Agnes Van Gompel; sisters: Laura Van Gompel; Lisa (Scott) Helker; Gina (Dean) Zaretzke; Sara (Mike) Scharpf; Jana Van Gompel; many nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his sister Paula Fiedler and her husband Mike. A funeral mass for Jim will be held Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 11:30 A.M. at St. Marys Catholic Church, Menasha, Fr. Tony Ibekwe officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 A.M. until the hour of service. Interment will be in St. Marys Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. The family wishes to thank the compassionate caregivers with Thedacare Hospice and Cherry Meadows. Jim will be forever in our hearts. We will remember him always, especially when we enjoy the Lords beauty in nature.
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Memories
DS
Dave & Mary Simon
Other •
Dear Amanda and Van Gompel Family, We lost a great friend this week. Jim's quiet and gentle spirit drew others to him. He overcame great obstacles during his lifetime--in part because of the amazing family support he received. Thank you for taking such good care of our dear friend. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. Let your fond memories help you through these difficult days. He was an amazing friend.... Dave & Mary Simon
KG
Kathryn Van Gompel
Other •
Clem, Agnes,Amanda & all my family. My prayers are with you at this difficult time. Please know I am there in spirit. I know all will miss Jim's sweet smile and warm personality. He is reunited with family long passed and a loving Heavenly Father.
TM
Tony and Clarissa McNamara
Other •
Although we only met Jim a hand full of times we could tell that he was a great person and we know that he will be greatly missed. Personally, I knew he was smart when I met him for the first time at an Alice Cooper concert in Green Bay...he was one of the only people to bring ear plugs! Here's to remembering the good times.
ME
Michael & Marge Edwards
Other •
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
JM
Jerry & Ann Mitchell
Other •
Amanda & Thomas McNamara & Clem & Agnes Van Gompel & Family. Jerry & I send our Deepest Sympathy to all. We know that Jim will be missed very much but will not be forgotten. We will always remember our last visit with Jim at Christmas. He will always be in our prayers. We are sorry that we will not be with you as we have visitors and are are expecting more in a few days. With love, Uncle Jerry & Aunt Ann
LF
Larry Fahrenkrug
Other •
Clem and Aggie, Please accept our heartfelt condolences at the passing of Jim. Heaven has another great fishing buddy. You are both in our prayers. Larry & Joyce Fahrenkrug