James "Jim" Chermak

James “Jim” Chermak M.D.

Beloved husband of Leslie Chermak, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on June 18, 2024, after a heroic 15-year journey with Parkinson’s Disease. Jim was born on February 15, 1947, in Manitowoc, WI. Being the oldest of four, Jim was a hard act to follow for his siblings in his athleticism. Starting as a star on his grade school basketball team, he continued to shine as a member of the 1963 Lincoln School High School State Team. As a student at Marquette University, Jim had the honor of being on Al McGuires roster during the 1965-1966 team and his name can be found on the plaque on Al’s statue at Marquette.

Jim also enjoyed the game of golf, again playing competitively in high school and in club championships during his adult years. The love of golf continued as he enjoyed helping his friends and family improve their game with notes and lessons toward making the perfect shot. Even in his last weeks, he pulled out his wedge and practiced his chip shot from his wheelchair. He also enjoyed tennis as an adult and won a few championships. He enjoyed hiking, biking, and skiing along with other sports activities. Other interest included Asian cooking, music, history, get together with friends, family and traveling.

Following graduation from Lincoln High School, Jim attended Marquette University, Milwaukee and spent his junior year in Rome through Loyola University. Following graduation, he attended the Medical School of Wisconsin and then completed his internship at Hennepin County General Hospital where he met his wife, Leslie. Following that he completed his residency at Wood Veteran Hospital and Milwaukee General Hospital in 1979. From then he worked in private practice in West Bend and then joined what is now named Froedert Hospital & The Medical College of Wisconsin Otolaryngology(Ear, Nose and Throat) Department until his retirement 10 years ago. Many of his patients and staff have reported he was a very caring physician. Even though the disease diminished his abilities, his quick wit sense of humor, generosity and big heart remained strong.

Jim & Leslie married on February 27, 1976, and have enjoyed their mutual love for each other for 48 years. Their daughter Jessie sadly and unexpectedly died at the age of 30. Jim was a wonderful husband and father.

Jim is survived by his wife Leslie; siblings: Ann (Don) Zimmer, Chris (Pete) Honzik and Tom (Mary) Chermak; nephews and nieces: Alison (Dan Probst) Coulson, D.J. (Megan Schmiedlin) Coulson, Sara Pillsbury, Jeff (Meghan) Zimmer, Katherine (Andy) Pahl, Betsy (Billy) Barron and Billy Chermak; along with many other relatives and friends.  Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur "Art" & Alice Chermak.

A memorial service will be held at Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory 979 N. Green Bay Rd. Grafton, WI on Friday, July 26, 2024 – 5:00 PM. Visitation will be held on Friday from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Memorials in Jim’s honor may be sent to the Lawlis Family Hospice 13111 N Port Washington Rd. Mequon, WI 53097.