James (Jim) Keith Bengtson, age 80, of Frederic, Wisconsin, passed away Sept. 25, 2025. He was born June 10, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Norain (Steve) and Garnet (Fassett) Bengtson. Jim served in the army for two years during the Vietnam War. After his return from service, he was a drummer in a rock-and-roll band that performed at Dibbos in Hudson, Wisconsin, for a few years. Jim became a heavy equipment operator and was a member of the IUOE Local 49 for over 50 years. In 1983-1984, he moved his family to Frederic and took over ownership of the Skol Bar, which he and Deborah (Deby) operated for 14 years. Jim was instrumental in starting the Frederic Family Days Street Dance, which was a testament to his love of music.
Jim was preceded in death by sisters, Audrey Bengston and Muriel Whitmore; daughter, Chrissy Carlson (Eric); and grandson, Mitchel Judkins. He is survived by brother, Vern Bengston (Jean) of Roseville, Minnesota; Deby (Koepp) Bengtson, his loving wife of 56 years; daughters, Michelle Bengtson, of Frederic, and Sarah Harvey (Aaron), of Roy, Washington; grandchildren, Jacob Judkins and Robin Carlson; great-grandchildren, Jackson and Neenah; his special sister, Barb Brault; beloved dog, Pepper; and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a Celebration of Life at Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic from 1-3 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 6.
