Jim Reichard
Jim Reichard
With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of James (Jim) Reichard on Aug. 2, 2025. Jim, 76, died peacefully at home comforted by wife Lydia (Lyd), his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 57 wonderful years.
Born Feb. 27, 1949, Jim was the treasured son of Mae Rose (Tezak) and William Reichard. He grew up in Muskego, Wis. A graduate of John Marshall High School, Jim attended MATC and General Motors School for Mechanics.
Deeply connected to friends and business associates in Milwaukee, Jim began his career as an auto mechanic advancing to General Manager of Service for one of the largest dealerships in the city. Jim opened Reichard Motors with his father, becoming co-owner of three Yamaha and Honda dealerships. A talented computer programmer, Jim started JR’s Excavating, which he proudly turned over to grandson Brendon, retiring in 2013. Jim enjoyed hunting and silhouette shooting, competing, and shooting a perfect 40.
Moving to Arizona, Jim became a very active member of our SaddleBrooke Ranch (SBR) Community. An enthusiastic “jeeper,” he joined the board of SaddleBrooke’s Off Road Bunch (SOBs). He often called a jeep his desert snowmobile. Jim started the side-by-side RZR group at SBR. He enjoyed playing “Sheepshead,” a Wisconsin card game. Utilizing his computer skills, Jim designed and maintained Club Express websites for both the SaddleBrooke Jeep Club and Glasshoppers glass studio.
Cooking was Jim’s passion. He competed and judged for the Kansas City Barbeque Society, and enjoyed smoking brisket and ribs. He made homemade brats and sausage. His love of cooking centered around developing special recipes for Lydia, who suffers from Crohn’s. He always looked out for her and was Lydia’s personal chef.
Jim’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Always ready to lend a hand, Jim’s energy was infectious. His warm heart, wit, and easygoing spirit touched so many people, along with his smile and the sparkle in his eyes.
Jim is survived by wife Lydia; daughter Michelle Ehlers (Rob); son Craig Reichard (Brandee); grandchildren Brendon, Danielle, Rachel, and Rylee; sister Judy Martin (Joe); and brothers John Reichard (Michelle), Jeff Reichard (Joann), and Jerry Reichard (Debbie).
A Celebration of Life will be held in Jim’s honor on Dec. 19, 2025. A light barbeque dinner will be served in the SBR Ballroom from 3 to 5 p.m. Please email Lydia by Dec. 10 if you plan on attending (pouchrat@gmail.com).