Our History

James “Diamond Jim” J. Delaney, age 92, of North Freedom, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on Saturday, April 12th, 2025.  Born in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, James spent most of his life in Sauk County, where he built a life rooted in hard work, passion, and an unmatched talent for the art of the deal. He was best known for his dedication to Delaney’s Surplus Sales, where his sharp eye and love for wheeling and dealing made him a true legend in the world of buying and selling.

James had a deep love for auctions and the thrill of the find. His work took him to many unusual places to find treasures — from Chicago and Minneapolis to Las Vegas and beyond, even traveling internationally in search of the next great buy. For Jim, the hunt was never just business — it was joy, adventure, and purpose.

Jim attended school in Avoca, the Badger School at Badger Village, and Prairie du Sac High School, where he earned his certificate of attendance. He was later drafted into the U.S. Army and served stateside during the Korean War, stationed in Camp Polk Louisiana. During this time, he often hitchhiked on weekends to visit his brother, Pat, who was attending the University in New Orleans, Louisiana.

After his service, Jim returned to the Sauk Prairie area to help his parents run their business, included renting cottages to workers near the Badger Army Ammunition Plant—many of whom relied on daily fuel, supplies, and beer from the family’s Beer Depot. Always entrepreneurial, Jim eventually expanded the business by purchasing surplus items and guard huts from Badger, then reselling them in Chicago. He often returned from those trips with more items to stock and sell at the store.

Jim crossed paths with Nancey Blake while she was in nursing school in Milwaukee. Their connection deepened years later in Madison, where they began dating and eventually married on November 8, 1961. Nancey preceded him in death on February 12, 1993.

Together, the Delaney’s purchased the building that once housed the Badger Village Post Office, Barber Shop, and Grocery—transforming it into what would become a beloved local institution: Delaney’s Surplus Sales.  The Surplus Store later expanded after the purchase of Zantow’s Recycling buildings, persevering through three separate fires over the years. True to Jim’s vision, the store continued to offer a wide and ever-changing variety of items—truly something for everyone.

Jim had a saying: everything was for sale, and if it wasn’t, he was still willing to make you a deal. He genuinely loved going to work every day, right up until the age of 91. The store wasn’t just a business to him—it was a place where he formed lasting connections with people from all walks of life and from around the world.  Jim cherished time with his children and grandchildren, especially when sitting in his favorite rocking chair, sharing stories from his life with a twinkle in his eye. In earlier years, some of his fondest memories were made on the shores of Lake Wisconsin—boating, swimming, and spending carefree days with his kids. Many special moments were also spent at Granny’s on Weigand’s Bay, a beloved gathering place filled with laughter, love, and lasting memories.

He is survived by his beloved children; Dennis (Michelle) Delaney, Suanne Delaney (Tarver), and son-in-law Al Ruhland. He was a proud grandfather to Morgan (Bart) Klaas, Paige (Elliot) Dederich, Quinn Ruhland (Jake), Blake Ruhland (Mindy), Dylan (Amanda) Delaney, and Logan Delaney. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Calvin Klaas, Delaney Dederich, Emerson Delaney, and Oliver Delaney.

He is also survived by his siblings, Michael Delaney and Susan (Bob) Beaty. and many nieces and nephews who will forever remember his stories, sharp wit, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In addition, he leaves behind his devoted right-hand man, Bill (Karen) Blumer, along with many other relatives, cherished friends, and the countless loyal customers whose lives he touched through the store.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ethelyn (Kramer) Delaney; his beloved wife, Nancey Delaney; his son, Timothy Delaney, and his daughter, Patricia Delaney-Ruhland. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Patrick (Beatrice) Delaney, and sisters, Elizabeth (Jeff) Huetter and Claudia (Mike) Delaney.

Jim’s family would like to express their sincerest thanks to Jim’s longtime friend and companion, Barbara Tabor, for all her help keeping Jim comfortable at home and to the caregivers from Agrace Hospice.

As per Jim’s wishes, a private celebration of his life will be held for family with interment in the Otter Creek Cemetery, Sumpter Township.