James Searls

James A. Searls, age 72, of Madison, passed away on November 20, 2017 with his wife Cheryl at his side.

Jim was born in Oshkosh on December 20, 1944 to Arthur and Edwina Searls. He graduated from Lourdes Academy in Oshkosh. While attending St. Mary's College in Winona, MN, he met the love of his life, Cheryl Kramer. He and Cheryl were married in 1968 and they moved to Madison where Jim was enrolled in a graduate program in Entomology at the University of Wisconsin. When a teaching position became available at Edgewood School in Madison, Jim decided that he would commit himself to a career in education. He subsequently was hired by St. Maria Goretti School where he taught Science for 35 years. During that time, he also earned a Master of Science degree in Education-Zoology. His education was lifelong; he was always reading several books at a time, on a wide range of subjects.

Jim had a love of nature and the outdoors. He bicycled thousands of miles, including two cross-country trips, and biked to school regardless of the weather. Many summer weekends included camping, sailing and enjoying the beauty of Door County. He spent many years sailing, even living on his boat with Cheryl in the Florida Keys. He enjoyed cross country skiing and prided himself on being an endurance athlete. His love of nature included a recent foray to establish a bumble bee colony and a bee/butterfly garden.

Jim's wife Cheryl would like to thank the many friends and family who have been at Jim's side throughout his life. Memorials can be made in his name to a charity of your choice. In keeping with Jim's wishes, there will be no formal service.

Please share your memories of Jim.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
(608) 238-3434