James J. Klopp Sr.

James John Klopp Sr., 80, of Glendale, a beloved husband, father, and Papa, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Jim was born March 29, 1946, in Milwaukee to William Sr. and Caroline Klopp. He grew up in Milwaukee, where he attended St. Elizabeth's Grade School, Marquette University High School, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He was a longtime parishioner of St. Monica Catholic Church.

He married the love of his life, Sheila (Van Ert) Klopp, on August 3, 1968, and the two shared 58 wonderful years together. They raised four children and built a family full of love, laughter, and lasting memories. Jim was a truly devoted husband, a giving father, and an especially precious "Papa" to his grandchildren, who loved their Papa every bit as much as he loved them. He adored being "Papa," and it was a role he cherished above all others.

Jim had a quick wit and an undeniable sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes. If someone told him it was good to see him, he'd smile and reply, "It is good to be seen." Those who knew him well will always remember his humor, and just as much, his kindness.

Next to spending time with his family, golf was one of Jim's greatest joys. He was a skilled golfer who loved the game deeply, playing beautiful and unique courses around the country. Until his final days, he could still recall his most memorable rounds in vivid detail, delighting in retelling the stories of his favorite shots and courses. But no course could compare to his true favorite place on earth — the Klopp family cabin on Lake Eau Claire in Augusta, Wisconsin. There, he loved to fish and savor the slower pace of life, always happiest surrounded by the people he loved most.

Jim was the ultimate sports fan. He cheered on his kids through every sport they played, then did the same for his grandchildren, never missing a chance to watch them compete. He loved taking the family to see the Packers, Brewers, and Bucks, and there was nowhere he'd rather be than in the stands rooting for the people he loved.

He also took great pride in his yard, especially his roses. Jim grew the most gorgeous roses and would cut them for the table so Sheila could enjoy them.

Jim retired last year as President of All States Trucking, where he spent the majority of his career. Jim was also a longtime member of the Bavarian Soccer Club, where he served as a volunteer, managed the Men’s Major team, and served as Vice President of the Senior Division.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila (Van Ert) Klopp; his children and grandchildren, Julie Klopp Collins (D/Declan, Rowan, and Braedan), James Jr. and Marisa Klopp (Matthew and Sarah), Jeffrey and Mandy Klopp (Brett, Ben, Sam, Bradyn, and Koldyn), and Carolyn and Matt Darby (Finnegan, Cole, and Ryan); and his brother, William Klopp Jr.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Caroline and William Klopp Sr.; his sister, Kay Bates (Parker); his stepsister, Louise Kaye (Leroy); and his sister-in-law, Noreen Klopp.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Discovery Commons North Shore for taking such wonderful care of Jim over the last five months, and to Legacy Hospice Cares for their support and comfort since June.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis de Sales Seminary, 3257 S. Lake Drive, Saint Francis, WI 53235 or St. Monica Parish School, 5635 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay, WI 53217.

Visitation Saturday, August 29, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at St. Monica Parish, 5681 N. Santa Monica Blvd, Whitefish Bay, followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:30 PM. Private entombment Resurrection Cemetery at a later date.