It didn't take long for James Krier to make a lasting impression on folks. Quick-witted and friendly, the longtime Town of Belgium resident was known for a gregarious personality that allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life. "Jim was kind, sweet and gentle," said his wife Susie Krier. "He would always tell you the truth. He was sincere and honest." Mr. Krier, 66, died of natural causes Friday, Aug. 26, at the Holy Cross home where he lived most of his life. He had battled diabetes in recent years but didn't allow medical problems keep him from holding down jobs as an agent for Key Insurance in Port Washington and at Kohl's Department Store in Grafton. Mr. Krier was born April 2, 1950, the son of Edward and Susan Krier. After graduating from Ozaukee High School in Fredonia in 1969, he went to work at Simplicity Manufacturing Co. in Port Washington. In the early 1980s, he decided to become an insurance agent, working for Key in Sheboygan and then opening his own office in Port Washington that he ran for more than 20 years. "Jim enjoyed working with numbers," his wife said. "He liked people and wanted to help them." In his younger years, Mr. Krier played in local softball leagues and tournaments, earning a reputation as a prolific home-run hitter. He also bowled in area leagues and enjoyed riding his motorcycle through the countryside. He and Susie Nordengren were married Oct. 7, 1995, at St. Peter of Alcantara Catholic Church in Port. The couple lived in Holy Cross, completing an extensive renovation of the Krier family house, which was built in 1876. Although the Kriers enjoyed traveling and visited Florida, California and Canada, their first love was their home, where they frequently entertained family and friends. They also made a point of sharing that joy with each other. "Every Saturday morning, we danced in the kitchen," Mrs. Krier said. In addition to his wife, Mr. Krier is survived by his brother Dennis (Mary) Krier, sister Mary (Sam) Marchese and mother-in-law Carol Nordengren, all of Port Washington. He is further survived by sisters-in-law Shirley Krier of Cedarburg; Holly (Steve) Ostermann, Peggy (Mark) Savatski and Patti (John) Lemkuil, all of Port Washington; and brother-in-law Chris (Sue) Nordengren of Powell, Ohio. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters Phyllis Krier and Carol Schueller and brothers Richard, Kenneth and Thomas. A memorial service was held Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Eernisse Funeral Home in Port Washington. Mr. Krier's body was cremated. He was buried Wednesday at Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorials to the American Diabetes Association or a charity of the donor's choice are suggested. (Posted with permission from the Ozaukee Press)