James J. Lambert

MERCER, Wis. - James J. Lambert, 72, of Mercer, passed away peacefully on Feb. 19, 2015, at home with his family surrounding him.

Jim was born Oct. 17, 1942, in Lockport, Ill., the son of Daniel and Alvina (Rodeghero) Lambert.

He graduated from Lockport High in 1960. In 1964, Jim married the love of his life, Sharon. In 1967, he attended the police academy and became a police officer on the Lockport Police Department. He served for five years as a patrol officer and was then promoted to detective for another five years.

Jim and his family moved to Mercer in June of 1977 and ran Arrowhead Resort and Lodge. He was a black bear hunting guide who helped many hunters get many record bear. Jim also loved trapping, the outdoors, the casino and politics. He loved the town of Mercer and being to the town board. Trying to keep Mercer a small town, but moving forward. He was also on the Iron County board and greatly enjoyed the challenges it brought. He never minced words and he always let you know where he stood.

Family was everything to Jim. He was a devoted husband and father who loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Sharon (Johns).

He is also survived by son, Michael (Brandi) Lambert; daughter, Cindy (James) Bianga; eight grandkids, Ashlye Lambert, Joseph Lambert, Avian Losh, Devin Losh, Ryan Losh, Kyle Bianga, Tyler Bianga and Kailey Bianga; and two great-grandkids Aria and Tatum Lambert. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Helen (Daniel-dec) Lambert; and brother-in-law, James (Tina) Johns.

He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws; brothers, Thomas (Janice-dec) Lambert and Daniel Lambert; son, Patrick James; and a baby girl in infancy. 

There will be a celebration of life gathering with a short service Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the Great Room at the Great Northern Motel in Mercer starting at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made at Associated Bank to the Lambert Fund.

Arrangements are by Range Funeral Service and Crematory of Hurley and Ironwood.