James J. Konkel

James J. Konkel, age 91, of Winona, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at his home.

He was born on May 10, 1935, in Arcadia, WI, to Grace Konkel, and graduated from Cotter High School in Winona. Jim married Audrey Ford in 1958, and they later divorced. He married Judy (Nygaard) Schmidt in 1994, and she preceded him in death in 2018.

Jim was employed as a foreman with the Federal Bakery in Winona and later worked for Badger Equipment Company until his retirement.

He will be remembered for his enjoyment of making peanut brittle and cheering for the Twins and the Vikings. As an avid bowler for many years, Jim was honored with being inducted into the Winona Bowling Hall of Fame on February 15, 2019. He was a long-time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Winona.

Jim is lovingly survived by his children: Greg (Nancy) Konkel, Brian Konkel, and Daniel (Patrice) Konkel; daughter-in-law, Leanne (Jon) Konkel-Briggs; step-son, Ed Schmidt; grandchildren: Erin (Kristin) Konkel, Mitchell (Gage) Konkel, Marita (Mike) Thrune, Justin Konkel, and Jacob (Momona) Konkel; step-grandson, Alex Schmidt; sisters: Judy Rothe and Mary (Mike) Casey; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Audrey and Judy; son, Kevin Konkel; daughter-in-law, Linda Konkel; his mother and step-father, Grace and Aloysius Jick; and a sister, Jane Jick.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona. Following the service, a luncheon and reception will be held at the funeral home. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Arcadia, WI.

Pallbearers will be Greg, Brian, Dan, and Justin Konkel, and Ed Schmidt. Honorary pallbearers will be Mitchell and Jacob Konkel.

Jim’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to his housekeeper, Suzanne; his home health aids Michelle, Jeanie, Jean, and Dirk; and Winona Health Hospice, especially his nurse, Heather, for the excellent and loving care that he received.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Jim’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.