James W. O’Connell, age 83 of Roberts, passed away on December 12, 2011 at the American Heritage Care Center in Hammond.  Jim was born April 11, 1928 in Roberts WI to George and Mabel (Hyde) O’Connell.  Like many of his generation, James attended country school, and graduated from Roberts High School in 1946.  After high school, James worked the family farm.  He was united in marriage to Ruth Edna Johnston on August 23, 1952 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Hammond.  Their marriage was blessed with seven children.  Along with farming, Jim served on the Warren Town Board and St. Croix County Board.  He then served as the Register of Deeds for St. Croix County from 1973 until his retirement in 1994.