James Cuene

James R. (Jim) Cuene was born June 14, 1927, to Herbert and Lauretta Cuene.

Jim’s beloved brother, Duke, followed in 1929. Both Jim and Duke were educated at St. Mary’s Elementary School in De Pere and East De Pere High School. After graduation from East De Pere in 1945, Jim was inducted into the U.S. Navy, serving until September 1947.

Jim then enrolled at St. Norbert College two years before completing his education at UW Madison, graduating in 1950. Both Duke and Jim joined their father in the retail automobile business at Broadway garage, starting a 50-year career that led to what is now known as Broadway Enterprises. Jim’s career was highlighted by being the Wisconsin truck dealer of the year and the 1986 Time Magazine National Dealer of the Year. He was proud to be a finalist on both occasions. Jim so enjoyed working with his friends and associates that he often said he would work for nothing if need be.

In 1959, Jim married the love of his life, Rosalie Olejniczak, his Polish Princess. Rosie and Jim had 5 dearly loved children: Kristin, Lori, Casey, Catherine and Jim, and 11 wonderful grandchildren.

Jim was a good athlete and played recreational football, baseball, and basketball, playing his last game in 1989. Jim enjoyed skeet shooting and card playing with his shooting buddies. In 1992, he joined the Green Bay Country Club and loved playing golf with his friends – usually followed by a tall, cool one. He shot his age until he was 91.

He was an avid upland bird hunter – woodcock and grouse. One of the great passions in Jim’s life was his love of his hunting companions – Brittany Spaniels – he had them for 65 straight years. For Jim, a perfect day would be hunting in the fall with Rosie and one of his dogs.

Jim was active in the community serving on the board of trustees at St. Norbert College and on the Board of Directors of Fort Howard Paper, U.S. Paper Mill, The Community Bank, Four Corp., and others.

He was preceded in death by his brother Duke; his beloved wife, Rosie; his daughter, Cathy; and his granddaughter, Samantha.

Late in life he was happily reunited with longtime friend, Barbara (Gueinzius) Gridley.

For the last 22 months of his life, Jim and the family have been blessed with the presence and support of Amanda Van Grinsven and the exceptional care givers with the Stella Vis Health Team.

He is survived by his children: Kristin, Lori, Casey, Jim (Andrea); his son-in-law, Todd Robinson; grandchildren: Matthew (Erica), Eric, Kevin, and Nick Robinson; Cooper and Eli Cuene; Sophie Cuene; Helena and Anneliese Cuene; and Chase Cuene; and his great-grandson, Henry Robinson. Jim will be fondly missed by a wide community circle of extended family and friends who meant the world to him.

He led a wonderful, loving, and productive life for which he was always grateful.

Jim’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the team at Unity Hospice for the compassionate care and guidance offered during the final leg of their dad’s journey. Thank you.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jim’s honor can be made to the family.

Family and friends may gather from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Friday, August 11, 2023, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Drive, De Pere, WI. Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am with Rev. Mike Ingold officiating.