On October 28, 2023, James Ronald Rubietta of Jefferson, WI passed away at the age of 86. The co-owner of Whispering Wings Game farm, he grew up in Illinois. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marie (Huff); two sons Richard and Thomas, 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; sister Diane (Rubietta) Ruppert and her two adult children, 6 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild; and sister Beth (Selonke) Waters, her son Scott, and two grandchildren.
Jim was preceded in death by his father Elmer Rubietta, his mother Bernice (Duerr Rubietta) Selonke, his stepfather Ed Selonke, and three nephews: Matthew John Ruppert, Greg Ruppert, and Donny Waters.
Jim and Marie met in high school English class, and Marie became his biggest fan on and off the football field. The former president of the Lincoln Park (IL) Gun Club and State Championship Skeet Shooter, Jim was mechanically gifted, and owned a successful business in the Chicago area. When he sold the business, they moved to Jefferson, WI and quickly joined the agricultural and sporting communities around the state.
Their Whispering Wings Game Farm in Jefferson became a favorite landing spot for wildlife. Jim and Marie brought with them their love for German Shorthair dogs. Their love of the land expanded to include acres of diverse plantings and wetland preservation.
A valiant man, Jim refused to allow impossibles to stop him. Ingenuity and productivity marked his life. Whether fixing an engine, writing a computer program, riding the range on a golf cart, or devising a way to pull a tractor from a pond single-handedly, Jim could make things work. A master of managing many tasks even past retirement, he not only ran the game farm operations but also balanced responsibilities of a second position with Upcon Property Services.
His family will remember this unforgettable man, waving from the tractor grinning, or troubleshooting a vehicle’s problem. He answered an impromptu helpline with family for clear-headed wisdom and mechanical advice. Through his glasses, he watched the world with interest; always his heart shone through when he gazed at his family. The world around him will remember his generosity and love for others; and his love of land, animals and sportsmanship.
The memorial service will be held on December 10 at 11 am at Nitardy Funeral Home at 550 N. Newcomb St, in Whitewater WI, with visitation from 9-11 am. A tribute reception will follow at First United Methodist Church, 320 S Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI, from 12:30-2:00. The Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com.
Jim Rubietta
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