James "Jim" Lewis Pfaff

James "Jim" Lewis Pfaff, 91, of Chetek passed away October 5, 2025. He was born May 26, 1934 in Beloit, Wisconsin, the son of Burdette and Lillian Pfaff.

Jim graduated from Chetek High School in 1952. He married Darlene Frances Feldmeier in Rice Lake on July 23, 1955.

Jim was proud of the time that he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was an active member of Chetek's VFW. He enjoyed being on the rifle squad and marching in the local parades.

Jim was a teacher for over 30 years. He finished up his educational career as Chetek's High School Guidance Counselor. Jim cared about his students. He and his wife Darlene took in several foster children.

In 1983, Jim and Darlene started The Chetek River Campground. He enjoyed interacting with campers and keeping the facilities in top notch condition. They ran the campground for 15 years. 

Jim was an avid hunter and fisherman. He could be found on the local lakes or in the woods, with a fishing pole or gun in his hands. He was good at sharing his adventures with his buddies.

Jim's pride and joy was his pet Shih-Tzu named Tasha. They went everywhere together.

Jim is survived by his children; Rick (Johanne) Pfaff of Lexington, MN, Debbie (Dick) Schmidt of Rice Lake, WI, Kathy (Rick) Bowers of Chetek, WI, Jeff (Lori) Pfaff of Luck, WI, grandchildren; Jamie Pfaff, Brad (Stephanie), Bryan and Blake (Angela) Bowers, Katie (Noah) Musial, Morgan (Braden) Cousineau, and great grandchildren, Madison, Brooks, and Ruby.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Burdette and Lillian Pfaff, wife Darlene, and grandchildren; Travis and Michael Pfaff.

A private service will be held on Saturday, October 11th, at 11:00 AM at the Lakeview Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at his residence following the service.

The Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.