James R. Bischel, 83, of Eau Claire, died Monday, December 13, 2010, at his home with his wife by his side. \r\nHe was born in Chippewa Falls on July 3, 1927, a son of Roland and Josephine (Tandberg) Bischel. \r\nJim married Geraldine Schweitzer in 1949, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Eau Claire.\r\nJim served in the U.S. Army for 2 years.\r\nIn 1955, Jim started working as a fireman for the City of Eau Claire, retiring in 1982, after 27 years of service. Upon retirement, Jim and Gerri moved to New Auburn where they enjoyed their home on Fireside Lake. Jim was an avid deer hunter and liked spending time in the woods cutting wood. He also enjoyed gardening, woodworking and refinishing furniture. \r\nJim was a member of St. Olaf Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus John F. Kennedy Council #1257.\r\nJim is survived by his wife, Gerri; six children, Tom (Ginger) Bischel of Port Hadlock, WA, Jean (Gary) Mehlsack of Long Beach, CA, Mike (Cindy) Bischel of Littleton, CO, Sue (Dan) Carlson of Colfax, WI, Mary Jo (Jim) Dopkins of Hudson, WI, and Pat Bischel of Spring Valley, WI; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; one brother; four sisters; nieces; nephews; and many friends. \r\nHe was preceded in death by his parents. \r\nMass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 17, 2010, at St. Olaf Catholic Church, 3220 Monroe St., Eau Claire, WI 54703, with Father Brian Konopa officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Eau Claire. Visitation will be Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 6:30 p.m. at Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home, 814 First Avenue in Eau Claire and one hour prior to services Friday at the church. \r\nMemorials would be appreciated to Friends of St. Joseph's Hospital, 2661 County Highway I, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729.

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