James Scharping

James "Sharpie" Scharping, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, in Madison, Wisconsin. He was 79 years old.

Born on August 22, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jim was the son of Arthur and Cecelia Scharping. He grew up in Milwaukee where he graduated from Washington High School before pursuing transportation and traffic studies at the Milwaukee Institute of Technology.

Jim dedicated over 16 years of his professional life to Consolidated Freightways before embarking on an entrepreneurial journey by founding his own trucking company, Jim's Express. Starting with just a Volkswagen, he built the business into a thriving operation with two tractors and twelve trailers before retiring. His work ethic and determination were evident in every mile he traveled and every load he delivered. 

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jim served his country with honor as a Gunner’s Mate in the United States Coast Guard Reserves from 1967 to 1973. During his service, he was stationed in California for six months before serving at various Coast Guard stations across the country. Jim had a deep love for trains and buses and enjoyed traveling the United States in search of a good train show. His lifelong hobby also had him riding various modes of public transportation wherever he went with a smile on his face. He also loved music especially being part of various drum and bugle corps, not to toot his own horn. 

Faith played a central role in Jim’s life. In 2001, he answered an altar call and was baptized the following year. He served as an elder at Monona Oaks Community Church and spent the last year of his life attending Calvary Bible Fellowship. Being afraid of heights, his favorite Bible verse was Matthew 28:20: “and lo, I am with you always.” 

Jim will be remembered for his larger than life personality, he had the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether you knew Jim forever, or were a stranger, he could carry on a conversation with you and leave an impression. He was always willing to provide a "Jim-ism" for any occasion. Jim participated at Rock Steady Boxing, a program for Parkinson patients where he enjoyed the new found friendships and the exercise.

He is survived by his beloved wife Carolynn; daughter Kathryn Scharping (Gale Newby); son James Scharping Jr. (Christy); grandchildren (Emily and James III); as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Margaret Jones and Elaine Fritz. 

Jim’s memory will live on through those who knew him best—his family, friends, church community, and all whose lives he touched through kindness and conversation. May they find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace with his Lord. 

His family would especially like to thank Agrace Hospice for his nurses Mallory and Jennifer and for the men and women of Fire Station 14 for all their assistance and encouragement. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 3, 2026, at Calvary Bible Fellowship 910 Femrite Drive. Visitation 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. with a service to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to Bakke Athletics/Rocksteady Boxing to further help others battling Parkinson Disease.