James M. Clayton

James Maynard Clayton, a teacher of special needs young people in Chippewa Falls and Kewaunee passed away on May 28th.

Jim was a popular teacher and engaged many of his students for several years after they left his classroom. Jim was active in a number of conservation groups in the area, and was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman.

Jim was born in Bloomington, Indiana and graduated from University High School. He was an outstanding football player, a skill which helped him be an assistant coach in the Chippewa Falls public schools. He attended Indiana University and achieved a B.S. in Biology and an MS in Special Education. His teaching skills won him recognition in both Chippewa Falls and in Kewaunee.

Jim was married to Shannon Cox and they had two sons, Brendan John of Eau Claire who is employed at 5 Star Plastics, and James S. Clayton who is in Germany with the United States Air Force. James and his wife Jessica A. Clayton blessed Jim with two grandchildren Samuel James Clayton and Carol Justene Clayton. Jim lost his brother William S. Clayton to Parkinson's but is survived by another brother John Clayton of Niles, Michigan.

Jim will be remembered as a man who cared about students who needed special help and caring. He was dedicated to his work with young people and took a special interest in helping them find success in school and after graduation. He also will be known as a man who loved Wisconsin and its lakes and forests. He will be missed by his family and those whose lives he touched.