James "Red" Wernecke, age 72, a resident of Springfield, IL passed away on November 23, 2015 at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, IL.

Jim was born on March 30, 1943 in Manitowoc to the late Otto and Grace Hessel Wernecke. He attended St. Andrew's Catholic School and later graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1961. Jim had worked at Lates BBQ for many years until serving in the United States Army from 1964 until his honorable discharge in 1966. He served in Korea as a cook for 14 months. After returning to the United States, Jim had worked in the food service industry in Manitowoc and Milwaukee. Most of his working years were spent in Springfield, IL. Jim was involved in historical western reenactments – note photo. He enjoyed going to dog races, playing cards, gardening, and was an avid collector.

Survivors include Jim's wife: Melanie Vasconcelles; two brothers: Tom (Jeanine) Wernecke, Champaign, IL, and Bob (Diane) Wernecke, Scottsdale, AZ; sister: Sue (Bob) Wallen, Manitowoc; step-daughter: Christina Bauman, Springfield, IL; two step-granddaughters: Melissa Bauman-Porter and Desiree Cody-Friedman; six step-great grandchildren; also many cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his former wife: Gloria Norville; parents: Otto and Grace Wernecke; and nephew: Andrew Wallen.

A memorial service will be held 5 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo – 1121 North 14th Street, Manitowoc. The Memorial Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Michael Warden. The family will greet relatives and friends at St. Francis of Assisi on Waldo from 4 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 5 p.m. Following the service, a dinner will be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, 620 North Water Street, Manitowoc. Online condolences may be sent to www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jim's family would like to thank the Villa Senior Care Community of Sherman, IL for their compassionate care following his stroke in 2014.