James B. Cation

James B. Cation, 97, of Milan, Ill., formerly of Minocqua, passed away on November 22, 2023, at his home. Born in Peoria, Ill. on July 28, 1926, to Ernest and Olga (Ohmann-Belsley) Cation, he married Betty Jane Smith on September 12, 1948, in Peoria, Ill. She preceded him in death on October 6, 2017. Jim is survived by three children (and spouses); Becky (Chuck) Leib of Milan, Ill., Jim (Diane) Cation of Minocqua, and Gary (Mary) Cation of Lombard, Ill.; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

First and foremost, Jim cared about his family. He will be lovingly remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle.

Jim was a proud graduate of Bradley University. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Moline, and was a former member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Minocqua.

Jim enjoyed a lengthy career with Illinois Bell Telephone and AT&T. After he and Betty retired to Minocqua, he worked for The Lakeland Times and spent considerable time volunteering in the community. He was a member of the volunteer fire department, served as president of the board of the Howard Young Hospital, was instrumental in establishing the Friends of the Library in Minocqua, and was a member of the Oneida County zoning board. He also served as board president of the Minocqua Country Club. Jim enjoyed spending time with family, playing golf, reading, and playing cards.

A celebration of life in Jim’s honor will be held at a later time. No visitation is planned. Interment will be private.

Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, Moline, or Salvation Army, Moline.

Online condolences: wheelanpressly.com.