James Hamilton Wilson

James Hamilton Wilson left his loving family and friends to join his heavenly family on June 7, 2026. He was born in Oshkosh, WI on November 23, 1953, to Elizabeth "Betty" and Neil Wilson.

Jim's journey on this earth was marked by his fatherly love, sense of humor, trust and skills as an educator to hundreds of children.

Jim is survived by his sister; Margo Kraft Wilson; children, Alex (Alicha) Wilson and Samantha (Tyler) Clark; daughter-in-law, Robin Wilson; grandchildren, Destiny, Noah, Katie, Anthony, Nathan, Eloise and Turner; four great-grandchildren; cousins, Jorene Ziebell, Brad Lehnigk and Renee Jacobsen. Lifelong friends, Michelle Kirby, George Scheuermann, the "Whole Gang", those from the Courtyard of Oshkosh, and many more.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Elizabeth "Betty" and Neil Wilson; daughter, Sarah; son, Nathan Wilson.

After graduating from Oshkosh High School in 1971, Jim received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1976. In 1992, he studied at Marian College, where he received his master's degree in education. He was a longtime member of the Oshkosh Education Association.

Jim was a dedicated teacher, having worked at Sugarbush Elementary School, New London, and Oshkosh Area School District. He loved teaching drivers' education at the Oshkosh High Schools, he mostly taught intermediate grades teaching meaningful lessons with humor, but more importantly, respect and responsibility.

Jim enjoyed watching history documentaries and listening to Polka music. He played numerous instruments including his favorite, the trombone. He found entertaining together in the band, he and his father created, "Uncle Earl's Hotsy Totsy Boys", the VFW Band, and as a member of the Oshkosh Area Community Band.

Being a history enthusiast, Jim spent many hours as a docent at the EAA Museum. He also drove guests on a tram throughout the EAA grounds each summer.

Most of all, Jim treasured the time he spent working in the yard with his son, Nathan, and dancing with his daughter Samantha, and son Alex, at Richard's School of the Dance.

Although Jim is no longer with us to spread humor, love, and music, his spirit will forever remind us of the joy he brought to all of us.

Thank you to the staff at Aurora Medical Center and the Courtyard assisted living

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society