James "Jim" Erdman Sr. went to be with our Lord and Savior in heaven on December 16, 2025 at the age of 68.
Jim was born on November 29, 1957 to Rev. Leonard and Pauline Erdman in Red Bluff, California. Due to Leonard's career in the ministry, the family moved around until settling in Wausau, Wisconsin. Jim graduated from D.C. Everest High School in 1975. He served in the United States Air Force from 1976 to 1980. Jim spent his career at Wisconsin Public Service as a high voltage electrician and safety trainer until his retirement in 2013.
Jim enjoyed the great outdoors and moved up to the cabin in Woodruff last year. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, carpentry, singing, and especially spending time with his family and friends. His pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. Jim was also very proud to be a veteran and was active in many veteran groups including the American Legion, the Man of Honor Society, and Disabled American Veterans.
Jim is survived by his three children, Alicia (Phil) Davister, Alison (Mike) Waldner, and James Erdman Jr., and his five grandchildren, Ella Erdman, Aiden Waldner, Sawyer Waldner, Jack Davister, and Hank Davister. He is also survived by one sister, Mary (Steve) Shuler, three brothers, John (Coleen) Erdman, Tom (Joan) Erdman, and Pete (Lori) Erdman, and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents.
The funeral proceedings will take place on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 164923 County Road Z, Wausau, WI 54403. Visitation will be held from 9 am to 11 am with the funeral service to follow. Burial will take place at a national military cemetery at a later date.
