James Jukes

James (Jim) W. Jukes, 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at Waunakee Manor Health Care Center. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and top professional in his chosen career that he called the "Credit Union Movement".

Jim was born May 2, 1932 on the family farm near St. Marys, KS. He graduated from Kansas University in 1955 and entered the U.S. Air Force where he was trained to fly B-47 bombers. In 1958, he began his 40-year career with credit unions including working with cooperatives and credit unions in Kansas and as a senior executive of CUNA & Affiliates in Madison, Wisconsin.

Jim's leadership role in credit unions was nothing short of amazing. He was recognized for creating innovative lending and payment systems in Kansas, developing rural production credit programs throughout the world, founding U.S. Central Credit Union, and management of numerous support services at the national level which enabled credit unions to offer a full range of services to their members. Jim was proud of conceptualizing and organizing the Filene Research Institute that today researches, publishes and presents forward-thinking studies on behalf of the credit union movement.

In retirement, Jim was active in the Rotary Club of Waunakee, Crossroads United Methodist Church and developing a beautiful rustic lodge for his family near the town of Plain, WI.

Jim is survived by his wife of 65 years, Phyllis; daughter, Beth; sons, Eric and Jeff (Arline); and five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a brother Richard Jukes.

The family wishes to thank the many medical providers and caregivers who have supported Jim since his fall in March 2018. A private family celebration of life will be held in the future.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the following organizations in Jim's honor; Filene Research Institute, 1010 East Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703; Waunakee Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 159, Waunakee, WI 53597; or Crossroads United Methodist Church, 5901 Hogan Road, Waunakee, WI 53597.

Winn-Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
5785 Highway Q
Waunakee, WI 53597
(608)849-4513