James Ernest Gain

MOUNT PLEASANT – Mr. James E. Gain, 84, passed away at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee on Friday, April 29, 2016.

   He was born in Kenosha on July 15, 1931, the son of the late Ernest and Barbara (nee: Christman) Gain.  On March 21, 1951 he entered the US Navy and proudly served his country during the Korean War.  On April 26, 1958 he married Gloria (Sue) Coates.

   Jim spent his entire adult life dedicated to union workers.  In 1965 he began his career in leadership with the Plumbers and Steam Fitters Local 118, a span that would last over 26 years.  He would eventually become business manager for Local 118.  Jim also served the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association on its executive board and as a president.  He took great pride being elected as the United Association 4th District Vice President, representing 11 states and 97 unions.  In 1996 Jim received the Racine Labor Person of the Year.  He also served his community as a board member for the Racine Area United Way.  

   After his retirement Jim enjoyed his time golfing, traveling, woodworking, painting and enjoying the company of his family.  He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be dearly missed by those that knew and loved him.

   In addition to his loving wife Gloria of 58 years, he is survived by his sons and daughters, Kirk (Leslie) Gain of Racine, Teresa (Pasquale) Martinelli of Kenosha, Greg (Anna) Gain of Caledonia, Stephanie Gain of Racine; his grandchildren, Stephanie (John) Putnam, Erica (Tony) Eppersen, Jonathan Gain, Pasquale “Vinny” and Angelo Martinelli, Savanna, Shelby and Dalton Gain; five great grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Mary Gain of Waupaca; his brother-in-law, LeRoy (Barbara) Coates; and sister-in-law, Jill Coates both of Racine; as well as many nieces and nephews.   Jim was also preceded in death by his brother, William Gain; sister, Barbara (Ray) Nelson and brother-in-law, John Coates.

   Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory on Friday, May 6, 2016 for a visitation from 10:00 am until noon.  A service celebrating and honoring his life will follow at noon with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating.  In lieu of flowers, memorials have been suggested to the American Lung Association, the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Cancer Society.