James R. Smetana

James R. Smetana, 92 of Waukesha, died on Thursday, April 25, 2024.  He was born on January 11, 1932 in Rochester, WI to Stanley and Margaret (nee: Pfanzelter) Smetana.  Jim attended St Thomas Aquinas Grade School in Waterford and was a graduate of Burlington High School Class of 1950.  In 1952 he served during the Korean War and spent 42 months on a troop transporter making 3 trips to Korea.  Upon discharge from the United States Navy in 1956, Jim then joined the Wisconsin State Patrol where he served for 33 years, retiring in 1989.  Jim married Eileen Tuchel, and they were blessed with 3 sons. 

Survivors include his sons, James E. (Susan K.) Smetana, Randolph J. ( Dr Linda S. Park) Smetana and Paul Smetana.  He is the proud grandfather of Dr Matthew (Lauren) Smetana, Peter Smetana, Dr Stephen (Rachel) Smetana, Kyle E. Smetana and Kaitlyn A.E. Smetana and great grandchildren, Zachary and Cara Smetana.  He is further survived by his sisters, Jean (the late Stan) Heiligenthal, Judy (the late Ron) Mangold and his brother Jerome (Jean) Smetana nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Eileen in 2003.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at St Mary Catholic Church, 225 S. Hartwell Ave Waukesha from 9:30 AM until the 11:00 AM funeral Mass.  Burial will follow at St Thomas Aquinas Cemetery in Waterford with Military Honors.