James Foelsch

James Michael Foelsch, MD, 72, beloved and devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend passed away peacefully at home on December 20, 2024.  Jim was born to Frederick William and Muriel Bonita Spittler Foelsch on January 20, 1952 at Deaconess Hospital in St. Louis, MO.  He graduated from Brookfield High School in Brookfield, WI then attended medical school at the University of Missouri Columbia Medical School before joining the US Air Force to continue his education at Wilford Hall in San Antonio, TX. 

After marrying his love of 5 years, Carolyn McCord, he completed his neurological board certification and they moved to Anchorage, AK where he was stationed at Elmendorf AFB, AK for four years before they moved permanently up to Fairbanks, AK to join the Fairbanks Psychiatric and Neurological Clinic where he practiced neurology for 40 years.  He was trained in the classic tradition and was able to perform skillful hands on neurological exams to make a diagnosis and determine treatments. His patients loved his straight forward yet kind manner.

Jim had a passion for Alaska and enjoyed all types of fishing, river running, golfing, hiking and camping with his loyal golden retrievers Jasmine, Spencer, Sadie, Norman, Henry, Lucy and Milo.  He is missed by all who love him.

Preceding him in death is his father, Frederick, and mother, Muriel.  Jim is survived by his wife, Carolyn, brother, Rick (Cathy), brothers-in-law Ed and Steven (Vivian), sister-in-law Virginia (Kin) and cousins Carol, Cathy, Cindy, Nancy and Steve.

The services will be officiated by McAlpin Funeral Home in Sneads, FL on Friday, May 23, 2025 with the burial taking place at Shady Grove Cemetery, Grand Ridge, FL.  A celebration of Jim’s life will be on Saturday, May 24, 2025 in Live Oak, FL.

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