John C. Bluemke

PACKWAUKEE — After a battle with cancer, John C. Bluemke passed away on June 10, 2026, at the age of 76 years. He was born to Howard and Ruth (Zimmerman) Bluemke on December 19, 1949. John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diane; son, Robert; and sister, Mary Ann Dove. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Ruth Bluemke; his brother, Frederick; and in-laws, Dennis and Elizabeth Baggett.

A 1967 graduate of Horicon High School, John was a proud veteran who served his country in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force, in Okinawa, John was an air traffic controller at the age of 18 and was discharged with the rank of Staff Sargent in 1971.

He married Diane Baggett November 2, 1974, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Their early married years were spent obtaining the goal of his desired career. After receiving his undergraduate degrees in Urban and Regional Planning and Economics, followed by a Masters of Public Administration, from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, John developed a career in community service, where his goal was to treat everyone with respect and courtesy. A dedicated professional, John worked for Winnebago County, then as the Principal Planner for the City of Oshkosh, before retiring after 17 years as Director of Planning and Zoning for Columbia County.

After retirement, John continued to work for the public by being Chairman of the Town of Packwaukee Plan Commission. John was an avid reader and bird watcher, especially in the spring when the migration presented many different species. Sand Hill Cranes were special to him, particularly a pair of cranes that returned to the Bluemke home for more than 19 years.

Terriers have been important dogs in our family life with a Yorkie named Baylee being the latest addition to the family. Baylee’s ability to provide comfort to both John and Diane could not be measured. John, Diane, and Robert have been blessed with neighbors and friends who provided so much comfort and aid, especially during this time.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home, in Portage.  Military Honors will be provided by Portage American Legion Honor Guard at the funeral home. Inurnment will be private.