James Raymond White

James Raymond White, born October 5, 1947, age 78, of Roberts, Wisconsin, passed away suddenly on March 2, 2026.

James was born in Hudson, Wisconsin, to Howard Raymond White and Harriet Elizabeth (Holmes) White. He grew up in Hudson and Roberts, Wisconsin, where he formed many lifelong friendships. During his childhood, he spent much of his time on the family farm and grew up especially close to his cousin, Elizabeth Kay Holmes. James graduated from St. Croix Central High School in 1965.

On March 17, 1973, James met the love of his life, Deborah Ann (Wondrowitz). They were married on June 1, 1974, at Roberts United Church of Christ. Together they built a loving home and raised three beautiful children: Heather Marie (White) Baker, Amiee Lynn White, and James Earnest White.

James cherished his five grandchildren and loved watching them develop their own unique and strong personalities: Lisa, Conall, Ellenmari, Sarha, and Charles. He loved to spoil all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren every Christmas. He never had the chance to meet his two great-granddaughters in person, but he was absolutely tickled and proud to be called “Great Papa” by his sweet Gemma and Mariska.

James also enjoyed playing softball with his friends from the Cave Inn team in Roberts, playing the position of catcher, and treasured traveling around the area with his family, creating many lasting memories together.

Later in life, James continued his education and earned two Associate Degrees in Accounting and Supervisory Management. While he accomplished much, James truly loved driving school bus for the School District of New Richmond, Wisconsin. The children he drove, whom he affectionately called “his kids,” brought him great joy. He loved watching them grow over the years, and the students adored their “Santa” bus driver just as much.

James was an avid hunter from a young age, first learning the tradition alongside his Uncle Russ and his father. Over the years he continued that passion with his father-in-law and brother-in-law. When his children were old enough, they too joined him in the woods, sharing in the family tradition he loved so much. His son especially shared his passion for hunting, and the two could often be found discussing ways to improve their skills and what to try next. When James’s grandchildren came along, he looked forward to passing on that same tradition and love of the outdoors to the next generation.

James will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and his deep love for family, friends, and tradition. His presence touched many lives, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Ann (Wondrowitz) White; his children, Heather Marie (John) Baker, Amiee Lynn (Jimmy) White, and James Earnest (Bobbi Jo) White; his grandchildren, Lisa Brady, Conall Baker, Ellenmari White, Sarha Baker, and Charles White; his great-granddaughters, Gemma and Mariska Brady; and his cousin, Elizabeth Holmes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Raymond White and Harriet Elizabeth (Holmes) White; his in-laws, Robert Edward Wondrowitz and Mary T. (Teubert) Wondrowitz; and his brother-in-law, Edward Charles Wondrowitz, who passed away around the same time.