Thursday, August 25, 2022
It is so difficult to start this because I know I could write many pages and never cover all the ways that I saw Jim McKinzie positively influence this world. Probably if I had to choose one characteristic that stands out, it is integrity. So many of us were able to observe Mr. McKinzie working hard to achieve many goals within athletics, teaching, and coaching. I fondly remember those fall football games in the Sterling stadium or the basketball games where so many of us made sure we were there. He visibly reached out to explain, mentor, and guide. When he greeted you, he always believed in a smile and usually found ways to sneak in some encouragement within the conversation. He was true to his values inside and outside the classroom and he lived life that way within the community. As much as he was admired for his many obvious accomplishments, I greatly admired the way he believed in his family. He adored Lenore, the kids, and his grandchildren. Lenore and Jim always made us friends feel like part of the family which meant so much over the years. This compassion was evident when he would quietly counsel students who were struggling to find their way in this complicated world. As a teacher, I tried to emulate the way he was able to reach out and make every child feel special. He saw and nurtured the importance of being there for all kids and all people at all times. I am forever grateful for his loving legacy. Such a well-lived life...even finding time for feeding Summit Lake chipmunks or sending some of us snipe hunting in the North woods of Wisconsin. Love and prayers, Lana (Hankins) Tannenbaum and Family
