James Lanswick

James J. Lanswick, 86, died peacefully on August 19, 2025, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN. He was born on March 23, 1939, in Superior, WI to Myrtle Winifred (Cole) and James E. Lanswick. He attended public schools in Superior’s East End until his family moved in 1956 to Hoyt Lakes, MN, where he graduated from Aurora High School in 1957.

James enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1957 and was honorably discharged in 1964. James also worked for the United States Post Office from 1958 to 1964, dividing his appointments between Hoyt Lakes, MN and Denver, CO. In 1964, he made the decision to leave the postal service and further his formal education.

James married Edythe M. Alswager on September 4, 1965, in Superior. They celebrated 59 years of marriage.

James’ post-secondary education included earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1968 in Secondary Education with emphasis on English and Sociology from the former Wisconsin State University-Superior. In 1977, he also earned a Master of Science Degree in Behavioral Disabilities from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1988, he received an Associate in Applied Science Degree with emphasis on Supervisory Management from the former Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College-Superior.

James used his education to work for 30 years in Superior as a state of Wisconsin vocational rehabilitation counselor. He retired in 1998.

James served on the Superior City Council from 1994-96, representing Superior’s fifth district.

Recreational passions for James included mowing his large yard, nurturing his trees and flower beds, and spending as much time as possible playing golf. Over the years he received certificates for earning five “holes-in-one.” James also enjoyed his membership of 44 years in the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks Lodge 403 in Superior.

Surviving James are his wife; daughter Elizabeth (Michael) Mattson; granddaughter Brooke Mattson; sisters Anita Lego and Peggy Sandahl; brothers Gary and Mark, and three generations of nieces and nephews.

Preceding James in death were his parents; brother-in-law Milton Alswager; and mother and father-in-law E. Marjorie (Bryan) and Raymond J. Alswager.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home 1209 E 5th Street in Superior is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com