James “Jim” W. Brickner
James W. Brickner passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022, at the age of 78 after a battle with cancer. He was born on September 8, 1943, in River Falls, WI to William and Shirley (Cowan) Brickner.
Jim grew up on a farm in rural Bay City, WI along with his brothers David and Edward, and attended a one-room grade school. He was a 3-sport athlete playing football, baseball, and wrestling and graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1962. He was on the first undefeated wrestling team of many to follow at Ellsworth and qualified for the state tournament.
After high school, Jim earned a B.S. degree from UW-River Falls, an M.S. degree from UW-Stout, and a 6-year Education Specialist degree from Winona State University. In all, he earned credits from 12 different universities.
Jim’s first teaching job was in Loyal, WI as a driver’s education teacher and wrestling coach. Loyal is where he also met future wife, Karen Wick. They were wed on June 10, 1967, and enjoyed many adventures together over their more than 55 years of marriage.
For over 29 years, Jim served as an educator, including a driver’s education instructor and social science teacher, administrator, and primarily a guidance counselor. At various times Jim coached wrestling, football, and golf. He had a rich and successful coaching career because he was fortunate enough to coach hard-working and talented athletes. For nine years Jim was also a sales representative and sales manager in the Madison area.
Jim positively impacted the lives of not only his family, but also a large group of friends, students, colleagues, and many others.
Jim is survived by his wife, Karen Brickner; sons Barrett (Hui) Brickner and Brandon Brickner; grandchildren Carson and Cole Brickner; and siblings David (Victoria) and Edward Brickner. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Shirley Brickner; and his sister-in-law, Catherine Brickner.
As per Jim’s wishes, A Celebration of his Life will be held on Sunday, July 24 from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm at the Lake Wisconsin Country Club, N1076 Golf Rd., Prairie du Sac.
A memorial will be established in Jim’s memory.
Online condolences may be made at hooversonfuneralhomes.com
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