James Pristash

James LeRoy Pristash, age 81 of Altoona, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at River Pines in Altoona which Jim called his home. Jim was born on August 12, 1944 in Ashland, WI to the late John and Agnes Pristash.

He graduated from Ondossagon High School in Ashland in 1962. Shortly after, Jim started his career at Lake Superior District Power Co. as an Engineering Technician. He worked there for 19 years and was then transferred to Northern States Powers Co. in Eau Claire where he worked for 10 years as an Engineering Associate.

After retiring, Jim and his wife Pat traveled to Arizona, Florida and went on many cruises. Their favorite cruise was to Alaska. They also cruised to Hawaii, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal.

Jim loved the outdoors. He enjoyed deer hunting and sometimes he would just go out on his land, build a fire and eat his lunch. He enjoyed golfing, bowling and going to breakfast with his friends. In the winter months, he enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles. He also had a love of music. When they lived in Ashland, Jim and Pat sang in the Young People's Choir at their church. Jim also performed in a quartette.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Patricia; son John (Christina); grandchildren: Isaac, Nora and Aidan; brother Robert (Sharon); sister-in-law Jeanette Singler; and nephews Scott and Tony Singler.

Preceding him in death are his parents, father and mother-n-law Joseph and Verna Onderak.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at Immaculate Conception Parish, 1712 Highland Ave., Eau Claire with Fr. Francis Thadithil officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Jim will be laid to rest at a later date at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Eau Claire.

The family would like to thank the teams at River Pines and St. Croix Hospice for the compassion and excellent care. Jim liked visiting with the nurses and going out for lunch.

Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.stokesprockandmundt.com.