James “Jim” Robert Updike, 55, passed away at his home on March 30, 2026.

Jim was born on April 28, 1970, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Doreen Thompson. He graduated from Holmen High School in 1989 and went on to build a strong work ethic through many years of dedicated employment at WalzCraft and Ray Hutson in La Crosse. Jim married in 1996 to Jennifer (Kirchoff); the marriage later ended in divorce. They shared two children together; Kalyn and Keegan. He was a proud grandpa of two granddaughters; Idessa Effertz and Brynlee Smith.

Jim had a deep passion for motorcycles and cherished the freedom of the open road. In his riding days, he was always ready for a spontaneous ride with friends, and even when he wasn’t on his bike, he loved sharing stories and talking about his latest adventures.

Jim’s appreciation for cleanliness and order reflected the care he put into his everyday life. Above all, he was happiest when surrounded by family and never passed up a chance to enjoy a trip to the casino together.

He was also an avid Minnesota Vikings fan who rarely missed a game. Whether cheering from his living room in his favorite jersey or attending games in person, Jim brought enthusiasm and loyalty to every season. When football wasn’t on, you could often find him enjoying NASCAR.

Jim is survived by his son, Keegan (Updike) (Christen) Smith of Onalaska; his daughter, Kalyn (Alex) Effertz of La Crosse; and his two beloved grandchildren, Idessa Effertz and Brynlee Smith. He is also survived by his mother, Doreen (Pete) Thompson of Holmen; father, Scott (Linda Kohls) Jungen of Onalaska; his brothers, Joe (Connie) Updike of Onalaska and Jeff (Kristie) Jungen of Holmen, Bret Herold of Holmen, Matt (Sarah) Thompson of Holmen; his sisters Sophie (Bradey) Schleis of Holmen, Molly Thompson of Arizona, Sara Thompson of Arizona, Katie Thompson of La Crosse; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded into death by his maternal grandmother Helen Miller; grandfather Henry Hove; Sister Annie Funmaker; Aunt Doris Wateski; Cousins Jason Johnson, Alan Keller, Bobby Wateski, and Deanna Hove.

Jim will be remembered for his deep love of family, his passion for the road, and the stories he shared with those around him.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 11th, 2026 at the Holmen Legion, 419 1st Ave W, Holmen, WI 54636 1:00pm to 4:00pm.