James R. Badger, 84, of Dubuque, died Friday, January 9, 2026.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am Monday, January 12, 2026 at Church of the Resurrection until 10:45 am.

The Mass of Christian Burial for James will be 11:00 am Monday, January 12, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

James was born October 24, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Clarence and Gladys Ernst Badger. On April 12, 1969, he married Kathryn  A. Frey at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She passed away on September 12, 2021.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, actively serving during the Vietnam War. He continued on with the U.S. Navy Reserves until his retirement.

Jim was a letter carrier for the  U.S. Postal Service from which he retired in 1996. Following his retirement, he worked for Dubuque Bank and Trust and most recently as a Sam’s Club sample man.

He was a member of Church of the Resurrection, the American Legion and was active with Boy Scouts of America for 25 years, serving in many positions. He was proud of his role as Santa and making connections with many generations of families. He had a heart for service and volunteered in many ways, including serving food at St. Patrick’s, calling Bingo, and playing Chief Menawa at Camp Albrecht Acres. He enjoyed being on the river. In his younger years, he was very active with the Dubuque Water Ski Club, and later in life he enjoyed the peacefulness of his boat.

Survivors include one daughter, Christina (Daniel) Hutchinson of Gretna, NE; one son, Anthony (Tammy) Badger of Brandon, SD; seven grandchildren, Emily Hutchinson, Robert Hutchinson, Charles Hutchinson, Lizzy Hutchinson, Tashlynne Badger, Tayven Badger, and Teya Badger; and one brother, William (Kathleen) Badger of Milwaukee, WI.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial has been established for the Dubuque Arboretum.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Jim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.