James W. Dobson

James William Dobson, 82, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, entered his eternal rest in heaven on November 10, 2022.

Jim was born on July 4, 1940 to Wilma and Doris Dobson in Platteville, Wisconsin. He attended Whig School and graduated with the Platteville High School Class of 1958. His call to service led him to join the Army as a Military Policeman from 1960-63.

 He met the love of his life, Ruth (McFall) when she responded to a letter he wrote to her leading to a marriage at the First United Methodist Church in Platteville on June 18, 1966. They were very proud parents of their two daughters Jodi and Laurie. Jim and Ruth’s family grew with their two sons-in-law and six grandchildren. Jim was always there for his family any time he was needed, no matter how big or small the project. His attention to detail was amazing! Being a grandpa was one of Jim’s most treasured roles. Grandpa Jim was always there to play “Car Lot”, tease a little, offer a never-ending supply of gum from his pocket, and get squeaky fresh cheese curds.

Jim’s aspiration to serve his community inspired him to earn his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from UW-Platteville in 1971. Throughout his career he held many positions including Deputy Sheriff, Police Patrolman, Captain, and Chief. He served the Wisconsin communities of Monroe, Montello, and Berlin. Jim was a proud member of the Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association while serving as the Chief of Police in Berlin from 1985 until his retirement in 2003.

In retirement he found much joy in serving his church community as he visited congregation members in hospitals and nursing homes as a Church Visitation volunteer. Many hymns were played on his portable speaker during his visits. He also enjoyed spending time at the Oshkosh Seniors Center where he made many new friends and may have even instigated a little mischief.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Ruth, daughters Jodi (Kurt) Prien, Laurie (Chris) Musha, and grandchildren Collin and Julia Prien; Jacey, Kiley, Bennett, and Madison Musha; sisters Marcene Duncan, Linda (Duane) Hanusa, and Lexa (Bob) Brodbeck, He was preceded in death by his mother and father, sister Judy (Dobson) Doser and brother Dale Dobson.

Visitation will be held in Oshkosh at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home, 100 Lake Point Drive on Monday November 14th from 4-7pm. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, November 15th from 10:00-11:00 am at First United Methodist Church, 700 West Linwood Avenue in Oshkosh followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Jim will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, 1901 Algoma Blvd. in Oshkosh.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church or the Oshkosh Seniors Center.