James S. Theis

James S. Theis, age 98, of Winona, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the Winona Health Hospital.

He was born on October 6, 1927, in Winona, to Joseph and Lucille (Feuling) Theis, and was a graduate of Cotter High School and the Winona Secretarial School.

Jim honorably served his country with the United States Navy during World War II and was a member of the American Legion.

He was united in marriage with Rosella Krage on June 19, 1948, in Winona, and she preceded him in death on October 12, 2004. Jim later married Mary Lee Blake on December 22, 2006, in Winona.

Jim was employed for many years as an agent with Woodman Accident and Life Insurance Company of Lincoln, NE, and after earning his Chartered Life Underwriter credentials, he also taught CLU certification courses.

He was a long-time member of St. Casimir’s Catholic Church in Winona, and after its closing, he attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Winona. He was also a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, was active with the Jaycees, and he was an airplane pilot with the Civil Air Patrol.

Jim will be remembered for his enjoyment of fishing, golfing, playing cards, trips to the casino, and spending time with his family.

Jim is lovingly survived by his sons: Tony, Tim (Kristina), Greg (Kathy) and Peter; grandchildren: Tiffany (Aaron), John (Jamie), Lincoln (Manda) and Zachary; several great-grandchildren; extended relatives in the Theis and Krage families; his longtime partner and caregiver, Susan Husman; and his wife, Mary Lee of Reno, NV. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rosella; daughter, Julie; parents; and his sister, Jane.

Visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM. Father Russell Scepaniak will officiate. Following the service, the American Legion Leon J. Wetzel Post 9 of Winona will provide military rites outside of the funeral home. Jim will be laid to rest in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona.

The family respectfully asks that memorials be directed to Home and Community Options, or to a favorite charity.

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