James “Jim” Arthur McKenzie, age 73, passed away with his loving family by his side on Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Jim was born on September 4, 1950 to Wilfred and Alta (Norgard) McKenzie. For his first two years of school he attended South Milltown School, with only four other children in the one room schoolhouse. The family then moved to Cushing, WI, where he enjoyed playing baseball with the Cushing team.

In 1960, the family bought a 4-lane bowling alley, 4-room hotel and a café and bar in Centuria, WI. Jim’s love of bowling started with Jim Prodger of Frederic Lanes. He bowled all his life and achieved the perfect 300 game a few times.

In 1972, Jim married Kathleen Hoffman of Centuria. To this union Jennifer Ruth and Darren James were born in their first home on Meadow Lane in Centuria. In 1981 Jim and Kathy took over the family bowling alley. To make sure his children got to school safely he drove bus for Unity School District and filled the slow summer days driving dump truck. In 2001, Jim built what was his lifelong dream: a new bowling facility. To this day it is a very successful business and includes a full restaurant with homemade pizza and soup. He was very proud of this accomplishment.

Jim loved fishing on Yellow Lake, hunting, and just being out with the guys. He was an active member of the Scottish Rite of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction in Frederic, WI. Jim was also involved in Trap League at Rod & Gun Club in Balsam Lake, National Rifle Association, Pheasants Forever, and PBA Peterson Classic Bowling Tournament.

Jim will forever be remembered by his wife of 51 years Kathleen; children Jennifer (Dan) Whelan and Darren (Lana) McKenzie; grandchildren Matthew, Ayden, Will, Bella, Cory, and Courtney; brother Dale McKenzie; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wilfred and Alta McKenzie, sister Shirley Nelson, and sister-in-law Gail McKenzie.

A celebration of life will take place from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Jim’s cherished McKenzie Lanes in Centuria, WI.

Last Update: Jan 30, 2024 1:48 pm CST