James “Jim” H. Wempe, 97, beloved father of Margaret Vogel and grandfather of Megan Vogel, died on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester.

Jim was born in Sabetha, Kan., on April 11, 1914, to John and Maude Wempe. He served one year in the Phillipines during World War II as an MP. He also was rifle range instructor and guard at several POW camps. Jim married Elizabeth on April 13, 1944. Together they had three children, Meg, Bill and Jane. Jim worked for Hormel for 36 years and was a member of the AFL-CIO. He also belonged to the Austin American Legion Post 91 and St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Austin. His joys were hunting and fishing with his great dog, Brownie. Jim loved to tell stories and tease his friends, family and caregivers.

Jim is survived by his wife of 67 years, Elizabeth; daughter, Meg Vogel, of Rochester; son, Bill, of California; a grandchild, Megan Vogel, of Rochester; and son-in-law, Rich Goggin

Jim is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jane Goggin; two sisters, Mabel and Julia; and an infant brother.

A Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, at Madonna Towers, 4001 19th Ave. NW with Father Joseph Fogal officiating. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service at Madonna Towers. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Austin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Raptor Center, 1920 Fitch Ave. St. Paul, MN 55106, or the National Eagle Center in Wabasha or please visit someone in a nursing home.

The family would like to thank the staff of Madonna Towers and St. Marys Hospital for their kindness and care.