James R. Rufener, age 69 passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at his home following his brave battle with cancer.  He was born on March 6, 1954 the son of Arnold and Gloria (Norder) Rufener.  Jim graduated from Belleville High School in 1972.  On November 10, 1973 he was united in marriage to Kathleen Storkson at St. Mary of Lourdes Catholic Church.  Jim worked as a truck driver and was a member of the Teamsters #695.  He loved the times spent with his family and grandchildren.  Many of those special times happened while cruising on the boat and fishing.

James is survived by his wife Kathy, children Jenny (Nick) Sies, Mary Hartlich, and Kevin (Anjali Pattanayak) Rufener, grandchildren Haley, Bekah, Kat, Mia, Charlotte, Austin, Tori, Caroline, and Jacob.  He is further survived by his father Arnold, siblings Judy (John) Baumgartner, Tom (Judy) Rufener, and Penny (Tom) Magnuson, nieces, nephews, and special brother Bob.

He was preceded in death by his mother Gloria.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 338 S. Harrison St., Belleville, WI with Rev. Chahm Gahng officiating.

A visitation will precede the funeral mass from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Belleville.

The Becker-Beal Funeral Home of Belleville is assisting the family.