James “Logchain” Hackney
Sgt. James “Logchain” Hackney Airborne Ranger, age 60, took the final jump of his life at his home with his wife by his side on Saturday, October 17, 2015. Jim was born July 22, 1955, in Berlin, WI the son of William “Bud” and Joyce Evensen Hackney. On October 13, 2012, he was united in marriage to Kimm Standke.
He grew up on a dairy farm in Poy Sippi, WI where his crowning accomplishment was inventing the pipeline milking system. (Unfortunately it had already been in production ten years prior without his knowing.)
Jim graduated from Berlin High School in 1973 where he was an accomplished football player and wrestler. He was also lucky enough to be on Prom Court and be crowned Mr. Berlin. After high school, he joined the United States Army where he became a decorated Airborne Ranger. Upon completion of serving his country he returned to Berlin where he became an Operating Engineer for 33 years. He was affectionately known by his coworkers as "World Foreman." Jim retired in 2009 due to his health.
Jim truly loved and appreciated every day he was blessed with. He lived with passion and enjoyed many spirited discussions of politics with his dad and brothers. He also treasured his many vacations with the love of his life, Kimm. Jim looked forward to spending Sunday's with family and friends cooking his famous burgers and socializing over a Kessler and Coke with lots of laughter. He looked forward to his morning peanut butter toast and "chip time" with his canine pal, Chevy. Jim showed us what it meant to “DRIVE ON” and "NEVER SURRENDER." In Jim’s words, “I didn’t win the fight, but I won the war.”
He is survived by his wife, Kimm; children, Thomas (Mary) Hackney, Kayla Hackney, Emily Hackney (fiancé Brennan Thoma), Clay Hackney, and Kailee Carlson; grandchildren, Emily, Joshua, Jacob, Nathan and Ryder; brother, John (Lisa) Hackney; two sisters; brother-in-law, Todd Standke; niece and nephew, Lacy and Lucas; and his canine companion, “Chevy”. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brother, William D. Hackney; infant sister, Jane Colleen Hackney; and an infant brother, Thomas Evan Hackney.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Barbola Funeral Chapel in Berlin. A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. Ben Reiser officiating. Military Honors will be performed by Wells-Krause VFW Post #2529 immediately following the service. Memorials may be directed to Wounded Warriors Project. Private online condolences may be sent to the family at barbolafc@yahoo.com.
His radiant presence enriches the glories of heaven.