James Tony Hess

Madison - James T. “Jim” Hess, age 87, of Madison, passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born on July 19, 1934, in Madison, Wis., the son of Tony Hess and Gladys (Stark) Hess. As a child he was taught to love reading by his mother. He had seven years of perfect Sunday School attendance and was awarded a Bible. James was a paper boy for four years, from age 13 to 16. He had so many childhood memories of birthday parties and going fishing. James graduated from East High School in 1952, then served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, stationed in both Washington, D.C. and France. Upon return, he graduated from UW-Madison in 1960. James married in 1962, and has three children from that marriage, Jim, Dana and David. He married Barbara Marshall Hess in 1984, gaining two stepchildren and seven step-grandchildren. James enjoyed a career as a food facilities designer, where he designed, sold, and installed commercial food service kitchens for schools, churches, nursing homes, restaurants, and supper clubs. After his retirement in 1996, he enjoyed building and remodeling, helping his children with projects. James had a strong faith and really enjoyed Christmas with his family, calling it the "happiest time of the year." He dearly loved his wife, Barb, his children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed traveling to many lovely and interesting places throughout the world with a favorite being the sunny beaches. He was also an avid football fan, especially the Packers. His dad taught him to work hard and do a good job to the finish. He was proud of his family business, the Frank J. Hess & Sons Cooperage which pays special tribute with a state historical marker at Schenk’s Corners. His sister taught him to pray. He learned that honesty is the best policy and that you should only drink in moderation. James is survived by his wife, Barb; sons, Jim (Tien) Hess and David Hess; daughter, Dana Hess; nine grandchildren, Alexander Hess, Madelyn Hess, Alissa Hess, Abby Hess, Aaron (Tracy) Serstad, Cody (Kelly) Serstad, Chad (Chelsey) Serstad, Sean (Erica) Serstad and Tony (Morgan) Serstad; brother, Toby Hess; former wife, Judith Hess; stepchildren, Scott (Jodi) Serstad, along with her children, Cassandra (Mathew) Kanugh and Thomas Van Schoyck, and Susan (Allyson Wingate) Serstad; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Jacqueline Morey. A funeral service will be held at Gunderson East Funeral AND Cremation Care, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 8 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday. Burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park with military honors. Memorials may be gifted in James’ name to Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420