James Franklin Habel, passed away at Gunderson Health Systems in La Crosse, Wisconsin on Jan. 14, 2017. A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. on Saturday Jan 21, 2017 at the Southside Neighborhood Center, 1300 S. 6^th St., La Crosse. A graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at Greenwood Cemetery, Platteville. The family suggests memorials for Couleecap of La Crosse. The Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville, is assisting with local arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.melbyfh.com.

James was born October 5, 1939 in Platteville, Wisconsin to Lester and Belva Habel. In his youth, Jim attended the training school at UW Platteville. He rode in the AMPI milk truck for 22 years and accompanied his brother, Lyle, selling and delivering for Southwest Supply.

He relocated to Delavan, Wisconsin to live with his sister, Barb Hessenthaler and her family, where he worked at Fagan Ford, McCullough's drug store, and VIP workshop.

In 1991 Jim moved to Waumandee, WI to live with his niece, LeeAnne Bulman, and her family. The last 13 years he resided with Anna Lawyer in La Crosse while working jobs at Riverfront, Hilltoppers, ORC, and most recently VARC in Viroqua. He attended Merit Center North. Jim spent alternate weekends with Dorothy Clark.

Jim loved to travel. His favorite places were Disney World, Disney Land, Dollywood, and visits to family. His other free time was spent walking, bike riding, teasing, dressing up for Halloween, and singing.

Jim is survived by his caretakers, Anna Lawyer, Adrian Gotts and daughter Aaron, Dorothy Clark and son Damien; his brother and sisters, Ron Habel, Vista, CA, Shirley Anderson, Onalaska, Carol Funk, Columbia, SC, Mary (Dan) Schiefert, Rochester, MN, Barb (Darrell) Hessenthaler, Delavan, WI; his sister-in-law, Karen Habel, Platteville; and thirteen nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Doris Habel and Lois Burlo; brother, Lyle; brothers-in-law, Eddie Burlo and Chuck Anderson; sister-in-law, Cathy Habel; and three nieces. The family is very thankful for the care Jim received during his last hours and the wonderful care and love Anna gave him.

James Habel

October 05, 1939 - January 14, 2017

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