Obituary
James (Jim) Carl Lynch
James (Jim) Carl Lynch, 87, passed away peacefully December 18, 2024.
He was born July 31, 1937, in La Crosse, WI, to Harold and Margaret (Hagen) Lynch. His young life was spent growing up on French Island, the backwaters of the Mississippi being his playground. Fishing, ice fishing, hunting, rowing his tiny rowboat around notorious island flood waters, playing basketball or football – his childhood was rich with adventure.
Jim graduated from Logan High in 1955, then spent a short time serving in the National Guard. Not long after returning, he met his sweetheart, Rosanne (Cookie) Betz. They were married July 1, 1961, and spent 63 years by each other’s side. Establishing a home on French Island, raising 3 daughters, and creating a lifetime of memories together.
Early on, he was taught the art of setting lines to catch fish from his dad. He was a natural; it became part of his identity that he later used to make a living and provide for his family – along with working outside the home. His tank often held fresh catfish (half his size) from the day, and over time, he became known for this – earning the nickname ‘Catfish Jim’ to both locals and travelers who sought him out. For him, he was simply in his element. He navigated the waters of Lake Onalaska with a skill that only comes with a lifetime of experience and continued doing so until he wasn’t able to.
Jim’s legacy as a fisherman stands as a testament to his strength. He believed in hard work, valued respect, and believed in only saying things as they were. He was honest, and if you knew him, that didn’t always make him easy to love. Looking past the tough exterior, he stayed dedicated to putting his family first. If someone was in need and asked – he bought it for you, he brought it to you, he put together, he fixed, he paid for, he figured out, he picked up, he gave. Any time, day or night.
He’ll be remembered as someone who always showed up. Reliable and dependable, he could be counted on without question. Though he didn’t express it in ways expected, his love was steadfast.
Jim is survived by his wife, Rosanne (Cookie); daughters Angie, Amber, and Amy; grandkids Andy, Cassie, Brianna, and Preston, Ross and Rachael, Lucas, Tyler, Elijah, and Cheyanne; great-grandkids Andre and Jayda, Ascher, Reina, Zavier, and Nico, Brooklyn, Brock, Brielle, and Briar, Bella and Ruben, Gabby, and Carter.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Harold Jr, sister, Margaret Zaczek; and grandson, Ben Geiwitz.
Life on the river was special to Jim and he allowed me to come along many times to “pull lines” with he and Amy ❤️ he also was the one that took the time and patience to give Amy and I all of those rides into downtown LaCrosse in his truck for some summertime fun at Riverfront park. Although he had a tough exterior, he loved his family so very deeply and it was evident. Praying for Cookie, Angie, Amber, Amy and all of his BIG loving family that they’ll find peace in knowing how much he loved you🙏🏻 J know the river misses you Jim!!!!