Dr. James “Jim” Sauer, age 87, of Tomahawk, WI, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, WI. Jim was born on September 11, 1938, in Port Washington, WI, to the late Erwin and Edna (Sagunska) Sauer. He was a proud graduate of Port Washington High School, class of 1956. Jim continued his education at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee for two years before pursuing his lifelong calling in dentistry at Marquette Dental School, where he graduated in 1962.
On August 18, 1962, Jim married the love of his life, Marjorie Lederer. On the very night of their wedding, the couple embarked on a new adventure as Jim reported for officer training at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX. Following his training, Jim served his country in Germany as part of the 86th Medical Detachment for four years while Marge taught elementary and high school English to the servicemen. After his honorable service in the United States Army, Jim and Marge returned to the United States and established their dental practice in Tomahawk where he served his community for 37 years until his retirement in 2003. Throughout those years, they shared their passion for education by creating a puppet show for Preventive Dentistry Week which they presented to first-grade students in area schools. Their efforts brought smiles and important lessons to many children, a tradition they continued over the years.
A devoted member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church for over 57 years, Jim lived out his faith with passion and humility. He was an active participant in church life, singing in the choir, taking part in cantatas at St. Mary’s, and sharing his faith as an evangelist. Jim and Marge faithfully served as youth counselors at St. Paul’s for 18 years, guiding and mentoring generations of young people. Their dedication and meaningful contributions were recognized with the Distinguished Service Award from the Tomahawk Chamber of Commerce. Jim’s commitment to stewardship also reflected his deep care for the environment. Jim was a man of many interests and talents. He had a lifelong love of model railroading and a deep appreciation for music. He played a key role in founding the Merrill Concert Association and served on its board for many years. Professionally, he was a respected member of the Lincoln County Dental Association.
An avid outdoorsman, Jim found great joy in nature. He owned and cared for horses for over 50 years and enjoyed hunting duck, pheasant, and deer. He also loved canoeing, bicycling, downhill skiing, and sailing with Marge. His passion for photography earned him recognition, including an award from the Milwaukee Journal.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Marge Sauer; his sister, Judith (Dr. Arnold) Krubsac; his cousin, William (Helen) Sauer; his nephews, Timothy (Summer) Krubsac, Scott (Laura) Bergner, Jeff (Jennifer) Amos, and Mark (Nancy) Amos; and his nieces, Annemarie Anderson, Patti (Steve) Neibauer, and Lisa Hoeppner. He was preceded in death by his parents, Erwin and Edna; and his nephews-in-law, Joe Anderson and Jim Hoeppner.
Memorial services for Dr. Sauer will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, at 11:00 AM. Pastor Stephen Gillet will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 9:00 AM until the time of services at 11:00 AM. The Honor Guard will perform military funeral honors immediately preceding the funeral service. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Dr Sauer’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
