James Lewis Stocking

Jim died at age 80 on Wed. March 22, 2017. He was born in Milwaukee on May 10, 1936 to Lewis and Edna Stocking. Jim is survived by his wife, Kathleen, his son, Eric (Theresa Brugert), his daughter, Kathryn and his grandsons: Mitchell, Colin and Ryan Stocking. He is also survived by his brothers John (Mary Hartley) and Daniel (Mary Ellen Niles) as well as his step children: Marcus, Todd, and Matthew Buerosse and Laura Albrecht.

Jim graduated from Milwaukee Country Day School in 1954 and Yale University in 1958 where he earned varsity letters in track for three years. After brief military service, Jim graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School and practiced law from 1962-1992. Jim lived most of his life in Wisconsin. He was a loyal Mason, Potentate of the Shrine and member of the Scottish Rite.

Although his vocation was the law, Jim was truly gifted with mechanical engineering skills. He loved flying airplanes and collecting and working on vintage cars. He earned his pilot’s license while still in college at Yale. Later, he bought an airplane kit, built the plane by hand and flew it solo over the Rocky Mountains to California. Jim’s passion was flying one of his planes and hanging out with pilot buddies. If Jim had been born in the 19th century moving west, he would be the frontiersman rumored to have said, “I see smoke from a neighbor’s chimney – that’s too close – it’s time to move on.”

Jim was blessed with a good mind, a strong body and loving parents. His challenge was a strong drive for recognition and being in charge. He was a determined individualist who demanded high performance from others as well as himself. He was loyal to those who remained close to him and very generous in helping people financially.

The memorial of Jim’s life will be private for the family.