Jim Brey, a life-long resident of Manitowoc, passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2025, at the age of 58.
Jim was the son of Norbert and Clara Brey, born October 31, 1966. He attended Manitowoc schools, graduating with the Lincoln class of 1985. After high school he attended and graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with a degree in Political Science before moving back to Manitowoc and looking around for a way to use his knowledge in making his city better.
He was subsequently elected to the Manitowoc Common Council in 1992 and has proudly represented his home in the Fourth District since that time. He was further elected to the Manitowoc County Board of Supervisors in 1996 and served until his recent resignation in July of this year before being appointed Manitowoc County Treasurer.
On a blind date in 1997, Jim met Jodi (Wittmus) and they were engaged at a common council meeting in November of that year. He was proud of having earned an “onion” from the Herald Times Reporter, who thought it was inappropriate conduct for a meeting. They were married on December 12, 1998. Their children, Eric and Elizabeth were a great source of pride as they grew up and were drafted into the political scene. Jim always took joy in their kindness, work ethic and the wit they inherited from him.
Jim spent vast amounts of time working for the people of Manitowoc, to the point of missing family time and special events because of that dedication. His family understood how much doing right by his community meant to him, though they loved to tease him about it. He was the consummate politician in the best sense – he wanted to learn, to hear all sides, to do the best he could for everyone, all the time. He was a football and baseball fan, admitting his love for the Los Angeles Rams as well as the Dodgers, but always noting that the Packers were a close second. He was fiercely devoted to and loved his many friends; the Walls, “his boys” in the band, and so many others.
Jim is survived by his wife Jodi and his children Eric Brey and fiancé Steph Watkins, and Elizabeth Brey, his mother and father-in-law Karen and Lee Wittmus, brother and sister-in-law Brian and Steph Wittmus, and nephew Kyle Wittmus. He is preceded in death by his mom and dad, Clara and Norbert Brey, and his only brother Roger Brey. The family would like to particularly thank Captain Jeremy Kronforst and Fire Chief Todd Blaser, as well as all of each department for their kindness, compassion, and respect toward Jim.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 8100 Brunner Rd., Newton. Rev. Dave Beaudry will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial. Relatives and friends may call at the church from 3:00 p.m. until the time of Mass at 6:30 p.m.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Pfeffer Funeral Home of Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements.
