James L. "Poncho" Kondzela Sr., of Antigo, died Monday, June 29, 2020, at Rosalia Gardens. He was 78 years old. He was born on June 10, 1942, in Antigo, a son of John and Jennie (Woitkovick) Kondzela. He married Darlene Fleischman on January 11, 1964, at St. John Catholic Church.
He was a graduate of Antigo High School, class of 1961.
Poncho had a 42-year career as a lab technician at Kraft Foods, which later became Antigo Cheese.
He enjoyed woodworking, playing softball, and family gatherings. He enjoyed playing card games such as Poker, Texas Hold'em, Scratch, and "S_ _ _ on your neighbor". He enjoyed his afternoon care ride for his "secret" ice cream cone. His greatest joy was spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren. He enjoyed playing horseshoes with his partner, Dick.
Survivors include his wife Darlene; two daughters, Janet (Steve) Weber of Crandon and Sandy (Rick) Fermanich of Antigo; a son, Jimmy "John" (Wendy) Kondzela of Deerbrook; five grandchildren, Katelyn (fiancé Luke Marten) Kondzela of Crandon, Brady (special friend Madison Champine) Weber of Crandon, Allison (special friend, Patrick) Kondzela of Deerbrook, Molly Fermanich of Wausau and Blake Weber of Crandon; two step-grandchildren, Britney (Jeff) Mullins of Crandon and Rhiley Weber of Rhinelander; four step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Kathryn Hunter of Antigo; a brother, John "Jack" (Beth) Kondzela of Florida; and mother-in-law, Lorraine Fleischman of Mattoon.
In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his step-mother, Josephine Kondzela; a sister, Marian (William) Royce; a brother, Lawrence Kondzela; infant sister, Bernice Kondzela; brother-in-law, Patrick Hunter; and father-in-law, Conrad Fleischman.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2020, at 11 a.m. at Bradley Funeral Home with Rev. Zach Weber officiating. Visitation will be on Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.
Burial will take place at the Queen of Peace Cemetery, Antigo at a later date.
To all the Rosalia Memory Care girls that touched my dad's heart, you will forever be in ours, Love "Ponchos" Family
Those attending the visitation will be asked to wear a face mask.
Thank you.
Services
Visitation
Antigo, WI 54409
Service
Antigo, WI 54409
4 people have supported the family by purchasing them flowers or gifts from the Healing Registry.
Dear Darlene,
I am just seeing this obituary for Jim. So sorry to hear of his passing. I’m deepest sympathy.
Dorothy Igl .stepien
We are so sorry to hear of Uncle Jim's passing...we have so many wonderful memories of him...camping at Jack Lake...ice fishing, but mostly catching bottle bass...sitting around the table playing cards and laughing...singalongs...horseshoes in the backyard...wedding and birthday celebrations...and the great trip we took to Las Vegas...all of these memories and more will be cherished always. Rest in Peace Uncle Jim, we love you. Our Sympathy and love to Aunt Darlene, Sandy & Rick, Jimmy John & Wendy, Janet & Steve and their families.
Love to all of you.
Mark and Amy Gatton
I always looked forward to visiting uncle Poncho and his family when I was growing up. Whether it was camping, deer hunting, or just sitting around the kitchen table there was always fun and laughter. Rest in peace Uncle Jim. Aunt Darlene, Sandy, Jim, and Janet my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Danny Royce
Uncle Jim was always smiling i will miss him he was always sweet and kind to me so sorry ill be praying for u ❤
So sorry for your loss , I will keep your family in my prayers, god bless .
I will always remember the love Jim’s family had for him. What an honor it was to see such a loving family care for their father. Peace be with you at this difficult time. Jenny Renfro
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