James Howard Yeager

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MADISON - James “Jim” Howard Yeager, 65, of Madison, passed away on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. Jim was born on July 30, 1959, in Wisconsin Rapids to Anton Joseph Yeager, Jr. and Patricia Mary Yeager. Jim was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive sarcoma cancer in 2022 and received exceptional care at The Mayo Clinic; however, the cancer was relentless and it ultimately took his life.

Jim was a kind, positive, and outgoing individual who brought a ray of sunshine wherever he went. Known for his work ethic and generous nature, he was a beloved member of Maple Bluff and the broader Madison community. Jim had an incredible sense of humor and a unique ability to brighten up any room.

Jim received his education at St. Mark's Catholic Grade School, DC Everest High School, and the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. During college, Jim developed a passion for business, which laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth.

In his professional life, Jim excelled as a top property and casualty insurance broker and Vice President at M3 for 35 years. He came from humble beginnings and worked incredibly hard to achieve his success. His dedication and expertise in the field earned him the position of shareholder and Partner at M3, and he also led the firm’s international insurance practice. He was known by his customers and co-workers for his deep commitment to providing them with high quality care, customer service, and technical expertise.

Outside of work, Jim had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He enjoyed sailing, skiing, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, swimming, golf, cycling, and hiking. Jim was also known for his talent in brewing his specialty Two Dog Manhattans, which were enjoyed by many. Jim took pride in service to the community. He served on the Maple Bluff Village Board for 14 years, he served as the Maple Bluff police commissioner for nine years, and he was an active philanthropist and strong believer in giving back.

Family was the center of Jim’s universe. He met Mary Wall in 1987 and shared 36 wonderful years of marriage with her. Together they raised a son and a daughter, Steve (33) and Caroline (32). Over the years they also raised three English Springer Spaniels, each of whom Jim had close relationships with.

Jim was an avid traveler and enjoyed many international trips over the years with Mary, Steve and Caroline. Some of his favorites included Scotland, England, Italy, Ireland, the Caribbean, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. He also deeply treasured his Canadian fishing trips with his closest friends.

Jim’s favorite hobby by far was spending time in Montana and Manitowish Waters with his family. He fulfilled his lifelong dream of having cabins in both places and it was in Montana where he felt most at peace. Over the years Jim, Mary, Steve, and Caroline hiked hundreds of miles in Glacier National Park, paddle boarded and canoed on mountain lakes, enjoyed many meals on the patio, saw wildlife ranging from grizzly bears to mountain goats and moose, consumed unconscionable amounts of huckleberry ice cream, and most importantly, came together as a family to recenter in what’s truly important.

Jim had a strong faith. He worshiped primarily at St. Bernard Catholic Church and was married at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Jim also supported St. Paul’s Catholic Church on the UW Campus as he was a big believer in providing students with a place in which to practice their faith.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his children, Steve and Caroline (Tom Casson); and his granddaughters whom he called his angels, Charlotte James (2) and Chloe Grace (1). He is also survived by his siblings, John Yeager (Holly), Ann Brigham (DC), Mike Yeager (Deanna), Doug Yeager, and Bob Yeager (Kathleen); and many cherished nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents who passed away in 2021 at ages 90 and 94.

A visitation will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2450 Atwood Ave., Madison, on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m., with a Mass to follow. After Mass, a gathering and lunch will take place at Maple Bluff Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Bernard Catholic Church or The Mayo Clinic in memory of Jim. Thanks to Jim’s incredible team of doctors at Mayo, he lived three years longer than what was initially expected. His family is forever grateful for the time. Thank you also to his wonderful in-home and hospice caretakers. Lastly, thank you immensely to the relatives and friends of the Yeager family who unwaveringly believed in, prayed for, and supported Jim and his family throughout the three long years.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kindness and positivity will be remembered fondly by his family, friends, and colleagues, and Jim’s spirit will live on through the memories, love, and values he left behind. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420