James Niswonger

James Niswonger of Grafton passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with heart disease. He was 82 years old.

Jim was born in Cape Girardeau, Mo., the son of Loomis and Thelma (nee Winkler) Niswonger.  

Jim grew up in St. Louis, Mo., where he attended local schools.  

He married the love of his life, Diane Kuehl, on Sept. 6, 1969, in Jennings, Mo. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. 

Known as a caring husband, father and grandfather, Jim took immense joy in creating intricate pieces of art and toys in wood for his grandchildren, sharing his talent and love with his family.

Jim proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1967. As an aviation engineer, he made great memories with his comrades in the VAW-111 “Grey Beret” Squadron aboard the USS Yorktown and USS Hornet. 

After his military service, he dedicated his career to McDonnell Douglas and the Boeing Aircraft Co., where he worked as an expeditor until retiring in 2008. 

In 2015, Jim and Diane moved to Grafton to be closer to family.

Jim was a proud member of the International Association of Machinists Union (IAM). He also enjoyed being involved with the Rose-Harms American Legion Post 355 and Post 10171 Veterans of Foreign Wars in Grafton. Jim was also an active member at the Grafton Senior Center, where he enjoyed playing mahjong.

Jim is survived by his son Joseph (Julie) Niswonger and his three grandchildren, Nicholas (Alexa) Niswonger, Harrison (Miranda) Niswonger and Benjamin Niswonger. He is further survived by his great-grandson James, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Loomis and Thelma and his wife Diane.

Funeral services celebrating Jim’s life will take place on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1167 Washington Ave. in Cedarburg. Visitation will take place before the service on Aug. 30, at the funeral home from 11 a.m. to  1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight.

Eernisse Funeral Home, Cedarburg, is honored to serve the Niswonger family.  

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.