James “Jim” M. Heaton

James “Jim” M. Heaton, 78, of Pepin, WI, passed away peacefully on May 1st, 2026 at Bluffview Memory Care in Holmen, WI. He was born June 10, 1947 to Finley and Fern (Heineman) Heaton.
Jim had a witty, deadpan sense of humor writing himself that “after graduating high school in Michigan and following a less than lackluster attempt at higher education Uncle Sam’s Army came calling soon after and presented the blurry-eyed rocker with a draft notice. He declined their two year enlistment offer and instead chose a four year term in the US Air Force where he served in Vietnam flying high and missing Woodstock”.
Jim had a passion for music and riding motorcycle. He retired after working many years at Federal Mogal in Lake City, MN. He spent retired life as an independent, free spirit that took very good care of his loved ones and doing what he loved.
Jim is survived by his nieces, Stacy (Eric) Mikelson of Alma, WI, Kelley (Jason) Gusa; great-nephews, Jaxon Gusa and Kori Gusa of Cochrane, WI.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and his younger brother, Tom Heaton.
J im’s family would like to thank Chris Hoyer for being a great friend who he loved to shoot the breeze with.
Graveside services will be held on May 8, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Oakwood Cemetery in Pepin, WI. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting his family.