James Francis O'Malley LT COL USAF (Retired)

James Francis O’Malley, 88, of Hudson, Wisconsin, passed away, leaving behind a life defined by service, family, and a well-earned reputation for doing things his own way.

Born on February 4, 1938, in River Falls to James and Alice (Singleton) O’Malley deceased. Jim grew into a man of determination, curiosity, and unmistakable wit. He proudly served his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force, where he built an extraordinary career as an Air Operations Officer and pilot. Flying C-130 and C-141 aircraft, he combined technical precision with calm leadership, earning numerous honors including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, and multiple Air Medals. His military service, including deployments during the Vietnam War, was a lifelong source of pride.

Beyond his distinguished career, Jim was first and foremost a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his daughters, Catherine (Wesley) Western, Patricia (Darryl) Rongitsch, and Shirley (Jordan) Erdman. Siblings: Patrick (Diane) O’Malley, David (Ruth) O’Malley, Timothy (Barbara) O’Malley, and Helen (Phil) VanGrinsven. He was preceded in death by his wife, Tresa O’Malley. son, James T. O’Malley (Laurie), and brother Gerald O’Malley. Jim’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Shane O’Malley-Potting, Olivia Erdman, James O’Malley, Adam O’Malley, Kelly O’Malley, Sarah O’Malley, Bridgette Rongitsch (Melissa), Jessica Rongitsch, and Julia Rongitsch, as well as a very large extended family.

Jim lived life fully and energetically. He loved hunting, fishing, boating, golf, and spending time at his cabin. Each year, he looked forward to his trips to Wyoming for elk camp, where stories grew bigger, laughter came easily, and no one was allowed to move an elk until he had taken a picture—whether it was his or not.

Known for his independence (including his famous “Irish goodbye”), he was equally known for his generosity. He could fix almost anything, often dropping everything to help family at a moment’s notice, even driving hours in the middle of the night. He was always working on a project, always in motion, unless he had a drink in his hand or a cat on his lap.

Jim had a deep love for simple joys: tending his garden, feeding birds, cooking, canning salsa, making apple pies, enjoying a Dairy Queen strawberry sundae, or sharing time with family. He was fiercely patriotic, quietly sentimental, and surprisingly a proud Taylor Swift fan. He loved deeply—especially his wife, whom he never liked to be away from for long.

With his dry sense of humor, sharp mind, and big presence, Jim leaves behind countless stories and memories that will continue to be told for generations.

A life well lived, a man well loved—he will be deeply missed.

Mass of Christian Burial 2 PM, Saturday, May 30th at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Hudson, WI. Visitation Friday 4 PM to 7 PM with Prayer Service at 6:45 PM at O'Connell Funeral Home, Hudson. No visitation at the church on Saturday. Interment Church Cemetery.

Livestream the service HERE