James Robert Mayek, 91

James Robert Mayek, 91, died peacefully on Aug. 4, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born Jan. 3, 1934, in Stevens Point to Joseph and Helen Mayek, Jim lived nearly all his life in the community that shaped him and which, in turn, he helped shape. A proud veteran, Jim served his country with honor before returning home to build a life rooted in love, service, and steady purpose.

As a young man, Jim found passions that would stay with him through every season of his life: golf, gardening, faith, and above all, family. He married Bernadette, with whom he raised three daughters in Park Ridge. After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, and later a master’s in psychology from UW–Stout, Jim dedicated his professional life to school psychology, touching many lives throughout various Wisconsin school districts, particularly in the Stevens Point Area School District.

In 1986, Jim married Maxine, and together they shared 38 years filled with golf games, fishing trips, travels near and far, and treasured time with family and friends. Their marriage was a model of mutual care and quiet joy—a partnership that reflected the best of who Jim was.

Jim always made time for the things he loved. His yard was a living canvas, each flowerbed and carefully trimmed lawn a reflection of his patience and care. Golf, too, was more than a hobby—it was a quiet expression of his steady spirit and a source of joy he shared with friends and family alike.

He will be remembered for his gentle demeanor, dry wit, and ability to listen deeply and love fully. As a steward of his faith, he dedicated decades to supporting St. Stanislaus Catholic Church and fellow parishioners through volunteer work.

Jim is survived by his wife, Maxine; her son, Tim; his daughters, Ann Duesterbeck (Linn), Beth Hamilton (Brian), and Nancy Mayek (Richard Butrym); grandchildren, Michael and Paul Duesterbeck, Henry and Kelly Smith, and Ava and Sean Hamilton; and four great-grandchildren: Townes, Reid, Drew, and Elle.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Holy Spirit Parish, with an informal greeting and visitation hour preceding the service. A private family gathering will follow.

Jim’s life reminds us that the quietest gardeners often grow the most lasting beauty. Like the red geraniums he faithfully planted each spring—bright, resilient, and full of life—his love continues to bloom in those he leaves behind.