Harlan D. ‘Butch’ James

HUNT — Harlan D James, lovingly known as “Butch,” passed away on November 27, 2025, at the age of 77. He was born on August 27, 1948, Butch lived a full, hardworking, and big-hearted life—one defined by dedication to his family, his craft, and the outdoors he loved so deeply.

An avid hunter, Butch found joy and peace in nature throughout his life. He worked as an electrician for over 45 years at Morton Salt Company, where he was known for his reliability, skill, and strong work ethic.

For two decades he proudly owned and operated Parkside Sporting Goods, a place where he shared his passion for archery and hunting, welcoming countless members of the community. He offered a place to share hunting stories and to teach young hunters safe and efficient hunting skills.

Butch was always readily available to lend a helping hand, and his generosity left a lasting mark on many lives. His love of nature and animals also included farm life, where he raised beef cows and horses.

Butch also served his community as town justice and on the town board for the Town of Portage for over 30 years.

Butch will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and willingness to help anyone in need. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Butch is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Laura K James; his children Jeremy (Denise) James, Jay (Debbie) James, Charity (Jeff) Ross; his bonus daughters, Laurie (Kelly) Denby, Rebecca (Todd) Clinton; and his beloved grandchildren Jordan (Jenn) James, Nathanial (Riley) Spencer, Dakota (Kim) James, Jesse (Katelyn) James, Lia (Corey) Davis, Brooklyn Stewart, Justice James, Jillian James, and Hunter James. Several great-grandchildren, nephews, and nieces also hold a special place in his heart.

He is also survived by his loving brother Terry (Leona) James; sister Sandra (Joseph) Borden; sister-in-law Linda Clark; Larry (Debbie) Clark; brother-in-law David Geens; and his lifelong best friends Ivan Davis and Marty (Helen) Grover.

He was predeceased by his loving daughter, DeeDee Marie James; parents Alvin “Mike” and Edna Gil James; brother Keith James; sisters, Nancy Geens, Sheryl Schuster, Sheila Parinello; sisters-in-law Lola Clark and Loretta James.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Short Tract Fire Hall where a Celebration of Life will continue until 6:00 p.m. Pastor Aaron Stone will officiate.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N Genesee Street, Fillmore.

In lieu of flowers, memorials if desired to: Short Tract Fire Hall

Online condolences may be made at: www.koplerwilliamsfuneralhome.com

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