James L. Spychalla

James L. Spychalla, age 87, of Antigo died peacefully at his home December 1, 2014. Mr. Spychalla was born on January 24, 1927 to the late James A. and Bernice (Koslowski) Spychalla in the Town of Antigo. Mr. Spychalla was born at the family's homestead and resided there his entire life. He attended St. Hyacinth's Catholic School and was a member of the Catholic Church. He graduated from Antigo High School in 1944 and later served in the US Army from 1950-1952. On July 21, 1956 he was united in marriage to Gertrude Ann Nixon at St. James Catholic Church in White Lake. Mr. Spychalla was a potato grower, owning and operating James Spychalla Farms, Inc. He was a skilled builder of farm machinery, constructing some of the industry's first self-propelled potato harvesting machines. He was an avid cross country skier and runner for over 40 years, participating in hundreds of races. In addition to his wife, survivors include 2 daughters, Sally (Craig) Nelson of Hopkins, MN, Gail (Mark) Wegner of Watertown, WI, 4 sons, James (Barbel) of Antigo, Leo (Rebecca) of Dousman, WI, Peter (Laura) of Normal, IL, Mark (Sara) of Madison, WI, 17 grandchildren, Zechariah (Laura), Adeline, Colin, Aaron, Claire, Mary, Russell, Emily,Jamie, Kelly, Anna, Pia, Lydia, Andrew, Ellie, Evan, Nathan, a great grandchild, Clayton, a sister, Delores Gronert of Grand Junction, CO, and a sister-in-law Shirley Spychalla of Appleton. In addition to his parents, a brother Leonard Spychalla preceded him in death. A visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 PM on Thursday in the Hoffmann Hall at St. John Catholic Church. A vigil service will follow with Deacon Andy Bures officiating. A private burial will take place at Queen of Peace Cemetery. A memorial will be established in Mr. Spychalla's name.