James A. Gregory

James A. Gregory, of Beaver Dam, passed away on December 18, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 29, 1961, in Waupun, Wisconsin, James lived a life full of love, service, and devotion to his family and community.

James grew up in Horicon, and graduated from Horicon High School in 1979. Shortly after, he proudly served in the U.S. Army for four years, including a memorable deployment to Germany.

On May 2, 1981, James married his high school sweetheart, Melanie (Mayo) Gregory, beginning a 43-year marriage rooted in love and partnership. Together, they raised two daughters, Casey Gregory and Abby (Cody) Schmitt, and James took great pride in being “Papa” to his cherished grandchildren: Sadie (23), Drake (12), and Theo (2).

James’s life was filled with passions that brought him joy. He was an avid fan of the Packers, Badgers, and Brewers, and he cherished time spent watching games with his family. He loved hunting deer—both bow and gun—and bird hunting with his beloved dogs. James also took great pride in supporting his family and coaching softball, where he impacted the lives of countless young athletes.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Melanie Gregory; his daughters, Casey Gregory and Abby (Cody) Schmitt; his grandchildren, Sadie, Drake, and Theo; his brothers, Jerry Gregory and Onnie (Echo) Gregory; as well as a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Connie and Don Gregory; his brother, Don Gregory Jr.; and his in-laws, Janet and Donald B. Mayo.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the doctors and staff at Poser Clinic and Rita Burmania from Hillside Home Health for their exceptional care and support during the final stages of James’s life.

James will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of the outdoors, and the kindness and encouragement he showed to everyone he met.

A visitation will be held at Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at 12:00 noon until 1:50 p.m. The celebration of life service will follow at the funeral home on Thursday at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Beaver Dam with military honors provided by the John E. Miller American Legion Post #146.