James E. Dottke, 89, a resident of Oak Park, died in Chicago on Sept. 6, 2020 with his family at his side. He grew up in Oshkosh, Wisconsin where he attended school, including earning a B.S. in Secondary Education from Wisconsin State College at Oshkosh. He also received an M.S. in Physical Education from Indiana University and a certificate in Mathematics for Teachers from Wayne State University.
He spent over 35 years teaching, coaching, serving as athletic director and principal at West Allis Central High School in the West Allis-West Milwaukee school district. He worked tirelessly to support school integration, for students who needed an alternative education, and for Title IX rights for girls’ sports. The James E. Dottke High School in West Allis serves as a legacy to his commitment to all students.
Jim Dottke was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy (nee Malchow), and his son-in-law, Michael Arthurs. He is survived by his daughters Lea Ann Dottke (Paula Hanley) and Jane Carol Arthurs.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place, with private interment at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
A celebration of Jim’s life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Shriners Hospital for Children-Chicago, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707 or the Myelodysplastic Foundation, 4573 S. Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620.
Arrangements were handled by Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 94445 W. 31st St. in Brookfield.
