James P. Voelzke, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Jim was born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, to George and Frances Voelzke. Jim and his brother George “Joe” Voelzke grew up in Merton, Wis., where his parents ran V’s Tasty Town restaurant. He had a lot of freedom growing up and enjoyed spending time at the neighbor’s farm and causing a ruckus in his mom’s rhubarb patch.

Jim attended Spencerian College in Milwaukee, Wis., and was a graduate of Arrowhead High School in Hartland, Wis. He also served in the National Guard.

Jim had many hobbies and was a passionate sports fan. He was proud to call himself a “Cheese Head.” He enjoyed sailing, scuba diving, golfing, skiing, being near the water, grilling, and above all spending time with people. Jim and his family lived in Brookfield, Connecticut for 20+ years and spent much of their time boating on Lake Lillinonah. Jim loved telling jokes, played the organ and was an avid music fan, being a loving father, coaching children’s sports, and grilling sweet corn. In retirement, Jim was a proud resident of Nunnawauk Meadows and worked at the Tractor Supply Company in Newtown, Conn. He spent much of his time walking at Fairfield Hills with his Boston terrier, Bella.

He started his career in the leather and footwear industry in sales and marketing at General Split Corp. He had a successful 40+ year career that allowed him to travel the world. His favorite city to visit was Florence, Italy. Jim was a lifetime member of the Two Ten Footwear Foundation, certified Dale Carnegie sales practitioner, and a member of the Newtown Rotary Club.

He is predeceased by his son, Peter Voelzke, and brother Joe Voelzke. He is survived by his three children: Dana Voelzke (Richard Franco), Ryan Voelzke, and Erin Stein (Gary Stein Jr); niece Heidi Goodman (Michael Goodman); nephew Jason Voelzke (Tamara Walden Voelzke); and many friends.

A service will be held on Saturday, June 17th at 11 am at St Paul’s Church, located at 174 Whisconier Road, Brookfield, Conn. A reception will follow at the church; please RSVP to Erin Stein at 702-467-4709.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission or Cancer Research Institute.

The Newtown Bee June 2, 2023