"I knew Jim for a short time when my wife Beth and I rented the upstairs apartment in the house he owned and lived in on East Johnson Street. We had just moved to town and lived there from late 1996 to early 1999. He was extremely nice to us. A true gentleman. My wife and I had our first child during that time. I also conceived of and started my business while living there. Jim was very encouraging and supportive. I am sad to come across this news of his death. I was doing an internet search hoping to find contact info so I could look him up and thank him and maybe invite him out for a beer. But life is full of surprises. Jim, I hope you are in a better place. Thank you."
In loving memory of
James E Orsted
August 19, 1960 - May 19, 2016
James E. Orsted died peacefully at the Fitchburg Agrace Hospice facility May 19, 2016. He was born August 19, 1960 in Racine, Wisconsin. Jim is preceded in death by his parents Delores (Simon) and Edward Orsted. He is survived by his son Lars, his two sisters Marcia (Dave) Kellner and Linda (James) Luelloff. Jim enjoyed and was an accomplished long distance runner. He ran for Saint Catherine's High School, Carthage College, and UW La Crosse. He continued to run marathons around the country: a favorite was the Boston Marathon. He worked for New Balance, Campbell's Soup, Demco, Resource Insurance and the Red Cross. He was a voracious reader of historical novels and loved all sports, music, board games and the game show Jeopardy. The family wants to thank the many friends, family, and the staff at Agrace Hospice for their support during Jim's final days. The generosity of your time and expression of love brought Jim so much joy. Rest in Peace Orie. Informed Choice, 3325 E. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53704.
Tributes
" I ran high school cross country in the mid 1970's and competed with James for several years at the state cross country meet at Dretzka Park in Menomonee Falls. Sad to see him go at such a young age. Many prayers and condolences to his son and family. "
"Smart, witty, engaging, a loyal friend. There really was no one I more enjoyed spending time with. Well read, tuned into the world around him and current events - a favorite was meeting up at places that had copies of the NY Times available and we'd read and discuss and opine. He had an amazing memory for dates, people, authors, events - he told me many times he wished he had been an historian in an academic setting. He made me laugh and enjoy life when I was with him. He was truly unique among those I have been honored to call friend. "