James C. Van Linn

James "Jim" Van Linn, 75, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 15, 1951 in Appleton, WI, son of the late Henry and Orvena (Jansen) Van Linn.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1972, serving aboard the USS Berkeley during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, he returned home and dedicated his life to hard work and providing for his family. Jim began his civilian career working in maintenance at Rayovac for several years before transitioning to the Holiday Inn from 1986 until 2017, followed by positions at Bridgewood Resort in Neenah, the Delta Marriott in Green Bay, and Town Lakes Apartment Complex. Known for his dependability, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others, Jim retired in 2022 due to declining health.

On December 21, 2013, Jim married the love of his life, Cordelia Nelson. Together they shared many happy years filled with family, laughter, and simple joys. Jim was a man of quiet strength who never asked for much. He found his greatest happiness spending time with his family and pursuing his lifelong passion for building and flying model airplanes. As a proud member of the Valley Aero Modelers Club, he enjoyed the friendships and camaraderie he found among fellow aviation enthusiasts.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Cordelia Van Linn; step-children: Scott Cook, Jeffrey Cook, Peter Polcyn, and Stanley Polcyn; step-grandchildren: Amber (Adam) Hall, Natasha Cook, and Preston (Lorell) Cook; step-great grandchildren: Oliver Hall, Lilah Hall, and Lincoln Cook; brother-in-law, Dale (Glenda) Nelson; sister-in-law, Karen Nelson; nieces and nephews: Scott (Tammy) Van Linn, Jennifer (Bert) Meigs, Craig (Heather) Nelson, and Steven Nelson; great nieces and nephews: Mace Harrington, Ian Nelson, Claire Nelson, and Adam Nelson. Jim is further survived by many extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers: Jacob (Beatrice) Van Linn, Joseph (Patricia) Van Linn, and Richard (Marcella) Van Linn; and his infant siblings: Janice Van Linn and Henry Jr. Van Linn.

A Funeral Mass for Jim will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, N2385 Municipal Dr., Greenville. Visitation will begin at the church at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of the Mass. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jim’s honor.

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