James "G-Pa" Krznarich

James Krznarich, more affectionately known as G-PA to his friends, family, and often new acquaintances, peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 16, 2021, following a fulfilling life and courageous seven year battle with cancer.

Born on May 31, 1938 in Wakefield, MI, G-PA spent his childhood days outdoors, playing sports and being looked up to as the oldest of four siblings. Upon graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1956, was transferred to Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indianapolis, IN in 1958, spent six months on assignment in Japan and was honorably discharged with a good conduct medal in November of 1962.

On June 27, 1959, G-PA married the love of his life, Carol Ann Zueck Krznarich. They enjoyed forty-seven beautiful years of marriage in which they would often be seen in matching wardrobes running errands, attending their grandchildren’s athletic and school events around the Milwaukee area or traveling the country to Green Bay Packer games.

Known by many for his quick and charming wit, which he sustained until the final days of his life, G-PA enjoyed a successful career in the retail and service industry as a Manager at JC-Penney and as a beer vendor for the Milwaukee Brewers, where he passionately worked for over 50 years.

G-PA enjoyed life to the fullest but never as much as when he was surrounded by family and friends, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Donica Oren and Michael Krznarich, brothers John, Robert and Donnie, his wife Carol Krznarich, and grandson Ryan Zuercher. He is survived by his brother David (Shirley) Krznarich, son Jimmy, daughter Deborah, grandson Jordan (Jennifer) Zuercher, granddaughters Sarah Krznarich, Carissa (Shawn) Karsten, Barry Krznarich, Tanya (Dave) Kemp, eleven great grandchildren, one great-great grandson and his special friend, Cindy Larsen, who entered G-Pa’s life in 2008 and remained by his side until he passed.

A visitation (10:30 am – 12 pm) and funeral service (12 pm) is scheduled for Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at St. Charles Catholic Church in Hartland, WI. Given G-PA’s love for the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers, the family welcomes attendees to wear Brewers or Packers apparel.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, Lutheran Home of Wauwatosa and Seasons Hospice for keeping G-PA comfortable and engaged in the final months of his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin where G-PA selflessly volunteered his time.