James George Dombeck, age 82 of Rhinelander, WI passed on January 5th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Bevent, WI on April 23rd, 1942, the son of Leonard and Estelle (Gross) Dombeck. He grew up working on his family’s farm in Bevent, WI. In 1958 they moved to Hayward, WI where his family owned and operated The Moose Lake Store. After graduating in 1960 from Hayward High School, James enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed in Hawaii for four years where he specialized as an airplane mechanic. He had a passion for flying and received his pilot’s license on December 3rd, 1963. After an honorable discharge he returned to Hayward and married Sally Lynn Greene on April 22nd, 1967 in Cable, WI. They then moved to Rhinelander, WI and raised four children. He continued to fly and would take family and friends for rides and flew a mail route from Rhinelander to Chicago Midway airport. Jim then changed careers, earning his Master’s Electricians license. For over 40 years he traveled all over the Midwest working until his retirement.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Lynn (Greene) Dombeck, parents, Leonard and Estelle Dombeck, brother, Daniel and sister, Dorthy.
He is survived by his brother (s) Jerome (Linda) Dombeck, Michael (Patricia) Dombeck and sister, Lorrie Lukas, children, Sue (Steve) Cooper, David (Erika) Dombeck, Eric (Jessi) Dombeck, Lee Dombeck, seven grandchildren and long-time companion Cindy Binkis.
Jim was an avid outdoorsman. He spent his days hunting, fishing, picking berries, harvesting maple syrup and visiting with family and friends. He really enjoyed helping family, friends and others with home improvement projects, always there to help and keep everyone entertained with his wonderful stories. He was truly one of the finest men you would ever meet.
To honor his wishes, a private military ceremony will take place in the Spring of 2025 at the Northwoods National Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.
