James Kester Obituary

James Danial Kester of Portage passed away Thursday evening, March 26, 2026, just four days after his 66th birthday. Jim was born in Grafton, WI, the son of Eugene Earl and Delores Emily (Ragni) Kester. On December 31, 2024, he married Kim S. Pennell who survives him. Jim was an avid sportsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved the outdoors and was dedicated to working in his yard. More than anything he loved his family and being known as Bompa and Grandpa Jim. Besides his wife, Jim is survived by his children, Michael (Natalja) Kester, Ashley (Mitch) May, Jason (Maddie) Kester; step-children, Jacob (Katie) Shearer, Zach (Caitlyn) Shearer, Mackenzie (Austin) Shearer; grandchildren, Aubrey, Wyatt, Gordon, Wade, Callie, Weston, Kalub, Abel, Jace, Ryker, Adalyn; and many friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Richard Kester, Linda Kester, Eugenie Kester-Fischer; and his special four-legged friends, Rosco and Lou Belle.