James Treutelaar

Madison - James R. Treutelaar, age 71, passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on February 16, 1944 to George and Florence (Dopke) Treutelaar in Milwaukee. Jim graduated from Custer High School in Milwaukee in 1962. He went on to receive a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison and master's degree from UW - Milwaukee. In 1965, Jim was united in marriage to his first wife and mother of his sons, Susan Schultz. Jim had a long career as a well-liked and respected physics teacher at Brookfield East High School. In 1992, he was united in marriage to Martha. Jim was an avid Badger fan, and made many lifelong friends supporting the teams. The joy of his life was following his son, Jason's, career as a basketball coach. He was also dedicated to ensuring his son, Jeff, had a wonderful life, despite many challenges. Jim was extremely gentle and kind. His relatives, friends and students enjoyed his sense of humor. Jim especially enjoyed spending time at the campground with his "little buddy" Reece. Jim was a skilled and creative builder and artist, and had a lifelong passion for learning. He was a member of First Church of Christ Science. In retirement, he enjoyed travel and photography.

Jim is survived by his wife, Martha (Follett) Treutelaar; children, Jason (Rachel) Treutelaar, Andrea (nee Puhek) (Ramon) Payan, and Christen (nee Puhek) (Tim) Weber; grandchildren, Reece, Hannah, Lena, and Carina; his brother, George (Marlene) Treutelaar; brothers-in-law, Jim (Nancy) Follett and Paul (Kathy) Follett; sisters-in-law, Judy Price and Barb Treutelaar; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Susan (nee Schultz) Treutelaar; son, Jeffrey James Treutelaar; brother, Wayne Treutelaar; and brother-in-law, John Follett; and his dog buddy, Chester.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 12, 2015 at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Avenue, Madison with Pastor John Swanson presiding. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at church. A lunch will follow the service at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Special Olympics, Attn: Web Gifts, 1133 19th Street NW, 12th Floor, Washington, DC 20036-3604, or at donate.specialolympics.org.

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