James Earl “Jim” West

James Earl “Jim” West age 68 of Durand, died Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN with his family by his side.
Jim was born on January 29, 1958 in Twentynine Palms, California. He was the son of Oscar and Helen M (Grilley) West. Jim grew up at a young age in the Southwest part of the country, eventually moving to Wisconsin where he graduated from Durand High School in 1977. Jim married his high school sweetheart, Donna Bignell, on June 18, 1977 at the Elroy United Methodist Church in Elroy. In December of 1977, Jim joined the U.S. National Guard where he served for 22 years. While in the National Guard, Jim spent time in Germany, California and Hawaii. Jim was a life long over the road truck driver, driving for Marten Transport and Fortune Transportation. He drove for Fortune Transportation for over 35 years. Jim was a member of the Durand American Legion Post #181 for over 24 years.
Jim liked to go fishing, shoot guns at the range and paintballing with his family. Most of all, he loved spending time with family and friends.
Jim is survived by his wife of 49 years, Donna, daughter, Tabitha (Dean) Ponto of Menomonie, grandchildren, Jadon (Sophia) Gordy and Aleena Perry, both of Menomonie, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00PM-3:00PM Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at the Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand. Burial with Military Honors provided by the Durand American Legion Post #181 of Durand will follow at the Arkansaw Memorial Cemetery in Arkansaw.
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.
Condolences may be made online at www.rhielfuneralhome.com.