James Charles Pelzl, 86, was called to his heavenly home on Wednesday, November 14, 2012, after being diagnosed with cancer in October. Jim was born in New Ulm, MN on June 28, 1926 to Theodore and Ruth (Brockmeyer) Pelzl. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in New Ulm. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1944 and was discharged when the war ended. He pursued graduate studies and received an MS in Mathematics from the University of WI, Madison in 1949. Over the years he taught at UW Wausau, Mankato State University, and Washington State University until 1971 when he received the Lord's call to teach math and science at Immanuel Lutheran College in Eau Claire, WI. Jim retired from teaching in 1991 and continued to enjoy his woodworking hobby. Over the years he crafted and built many pieces of furniture and stringed instruments including guitars, violins and cellos for his family and friends. In 2007 he designed and built the chancel furniture for Messiah Lutheran Church where he was a long time member. He considered his gifts in woodworking a blessing from the Lord, passed down through four generations. He is survived by his wife, Carla (Thurow) Pelzl; three daughters, Peggy (Mark) Herrick of Minneapolis, Susan (Mike) Eichstadt of Milwaukee, and Julie of Minneapolis; son, Paul of Milwaukee; grandchildren, Meghan, Stephen, Gretchen, Jill, and Matthew; four great grandchildren; and three brothers, Charles (Tina), Ted (Jeanne), Dave (Jan). He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lorna Gerlach Pelzl and an infant daughter and son. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 18, 2012, at Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home, 814 First Ave., Eau Claire, WI. A victory service will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, 2015 N. Hastings Way, Eau Claire, WI, on Monday, November 19 at 1 p.m. with a fellowship lunch following. Visitation will also be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be given to Immanuel Lutheran College Building Fund or the Student Scholarship Fund.

Service Information

Visitation

Sunday, November 18 2012 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services 814 First Avenue Eau Claire WI 54703

Visitation

Monday, November 19 2012 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Messiah Lutheran Church 2015 North Hastings Way Eau Claire WI 54703