Obituaries

James Patrick Garin, age 74, passed away at his home in DeForest, WI on October 3, 2024. James “Jim” was born in Janesville, WI on September 10, 1950 to parents Thomas and Eveline (Lunn) Garin. Jim served in the United States Army during Vietnam and received the Air Force ROTC Commandant’s award. During his career as a manufacturing finishing engineer, Jim worked for Trek, Alcoa, Kawneer, and Haworth. He became a certified NAUI scuba instructor on June 21, 1975. He was an avid runner and cyclist and enjoyed birdwatching and photography. His underwater macro photographs of rare sea life have appeared in the Smithsonian and other fish encyclopedias.

Jim married Cheryl Lynn Machkovitz on July 31, 1981, sharing 43 years of marriage together. Jim had a love for cooking and was known for his famous 5-chile (or many more varieties) chili made only with fresh, hot chile peppers. He was a great listener and an incredible storyteller. He could hold an audience for hours with stories of his amazing adventures. Jim loved history, especially learning new things about history as it’s taught. Jim was interested in everything and knew a lot about many things - he had numerous other hobbies throughout his life including golf, tennis and gem collecting, and he didn't do things casually. He became very, very good at what he did; an attestment to his internal fortitude and love of life. He was a wine and coffee connoisseur and world traveler, traveling to 40 countries. He was very excited to visit Malta and Africa, and died the morning he was to fly there.

Despite having catastrophic health events in 2016, with great courage and discipline and daily running and cycling, he became not only self-sufficient, but an active and independent contributor to the support of his family and friends. He will be remembered as a most generous friend, guide, and mentor.

Jim is survived by his spouse, Cheryl Garin; children, Diana (Tim) Lammers, and Alex Garin; 4 grandchildren, Dylan Widmer, Nolan Widmer, Logan Widmer, and Layla Lammers.

Memorials may be made to the Wisconsin Bird Protection Fund: https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/Wisconservation

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Windsor/DeForest Chapel

6924 Lake Road

608-846-4250