James “Banjo” Menadue, 84, formerly of Dubuque, IA died Monday, December 29, 2025, in Cumming, GA.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for James will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque where full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6.

James was born September 15, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Charles and Gladys (Sawvel) Menadue. On September 13, 1973, he married Sharon A. Donath. She preceded him in death on February 23, 2007.

He was enlisted in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves for 16 years.

James worked for the Dubuque Packing Co. for 43 years. He was an organizing member of United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 150A. James collected hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations over the years for his union brothers and sisters who had encountered personal hardships, such as loss of a spouse or a child, loss of a home or medical debt.

James was deeply proud of his service to his country in the United States Navy. He held a lifelong love for the outdoors and wildlife, finding great enjoyment in hunting and fishing. A lifelong and passionate Green Bay Packers fan, his dedication to the team was well known. While living in an independent living facility in Georgia, James took an active role in his community by facilitating a men’s charity club that raised significant funds for local causes. James shared a love with Sharon for their dogs, Lady, Bear, Angel and Scruffy. Above all, James found his greatest joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include two sons, Jay (Andrea) Menadue of Cumming, GA, and Patrick (Michelle) Menadue of Sun Prairie, WI; one daughter-in-law, Natalie Menadue of Auburn, GA; eight grandchildren, Tiffany, Catherine, Zeb, Kevin, Michael Anthony, Michael Joseph, Lucas and Mason; four siblings, Charles, Thomas, Patricia, and Vickie.

Besides his parents and his wife, James was preceded in death by one son, Kevin Menadue; and four siblings, Shirley, Richard “Dickie”, Jacqueline “Squeaky”, and Sharon.

In lieu of plants and flowers, the family requests that memorials be given in James’ name to the Veterans Freedom Center.

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