James Paul Wegner

Feb 03/1985 – June 20th 2018

Our loving son Jimmy was taken from us far too early at the age of only 33, as yet another casualty of the opioid crisis that is consuming families and loved ones across this state.

Dates, statistics, numbers, one tends to become immune until it happens to someone dear. Some will say now is not the place to discuss this topic and this should be a tribute to Jimmy and his life.  But this is an obituary for an intelligent 33 year old in what should be the prime of his life.  So we say look at his story and if you see yourself, a friend or loved one, then wake up to reality, that this is what awaits unless you make a change.  And if it serves to save even one person, then it gives us some solace in his unbearable death.

Born premature, Jimmy came into this world struggling for six long weeks in the neo-natal ICU while we prayed daily for his survival.  His rebound was remarkable and inspiring as he was finally released perfectly normal with no impairments.

As a youngster, he was bright, inquisitive and athletic, so full of life, loved swimming, science programs, outdoor games and family outings.  A hard worker and fast learner, he was so proud and happy to gain employment as early as age 14 in fast food service.

Jimmy always had a friendly smile, polite manner and willingness to lend a helping hand even if you were a complete stranger that made it easy for him to make friends.

Unfortunately, even as a teen, Jimmy’s inquisitiveness and curiosity also led him slowly along an ever increasing path of drug abuse.  Always a good student, grades began to slip, friends changed and a more secretive side emerged, very subtle at first, then becoming more noticeable over the years.

After high school he held a variety of decent jobs in Minnesota and Wisconsin, but struggled to stay focused and employed due to recurring bouts with addiction and its effects. Multiple attempts and efforts over the years to make positive changes always ended with reversion back to drug use at a more frequent and escalating depth.  And finally, after nearly 4 months absolute sobriety, Jimmy returned on Monday afternoon to Marshfield to restart once again, by Wednesday he was dead.

James is survived by his loving parents Richard and Tammy, brother Eric of Spencer, girlfriend Aubrey Mason of Marshfield, maternal grandfather Richard Akey of Marshfield, Uncles; Charles (Cheri) Wegner of Neillsville, Robert Akey of Marshfield, Scott (Penny) Wegner of Schofield, Tom Wegner of Neillsville and Daniel Akey of Marshfield.

He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Carl and Bernita Wegner, and maternal grandmother Sylvia Akey.

A memorial service will be held at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Marshfield, where the family will receive relatives and friends from 1:30 pm until service time. Rev. Donn Radde will officiate and Rembs Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the family who will establish a memorial to an opioid help program.

Condolences may be sent online to www.rembsfh.com