James W. McKee, age 93 of Winneconne, passed away at Valley VNA of Neenah on September 6, 2026. He was born on September 25, 1932, to the late James and Grace (Lloyd) McKee in Lawrenceburg, KY. James has three daughters, Katie, Laura, and Sarah. Jim was united in marriage to Mary Beth Kitz on October 15, 1989. Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving from 1954 to 1962 while pursuing his PhD in Geology at Louisiana State University.

After graduation, Jim came to Oshkosh to teach at the University of Wisconsin. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching the students. His favorite was field geology where he created projects for the students to take their new skills and discover for themselves the stories the rocks told of earth’s history. Professionally, Jim contributed significantly to geological field research in Northern Mexico principally in the states Coahuila and Sonora. Jim and Mary Beth enjoyed time together on their hobby farm in Winneconne where Jim created “McKee Park” out back with his backhoe and where they took a go at raising steers, each affectionately named after Jim’s colleagues in the Geology department. The steers were ultimately traded in for two donkeys and a couple of cats.

Jim enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. Saturday mornings were spent with his friend Curt, cooking up a storm and listening to music. Road trips across the country were a special treat and he loved sharing bits of his Kentucky roots with family and friends.

Jim is survived by his family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Lord of the Lakes, 6090 Harbour S Dr, Winneconne, WI 54986 with Rev. Kevin Heffernan officiating. Visitation will take place at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment with Military Honors will be held privately at Winneconne Cemetery.