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Apr 21, 2011
James Marr – Photo: Courtesy
James Marr, 43, of Milwaukee, died March 31 in his sleep from a torn aorta.
James spent his youth in Provincetown, Mass., and New Mexico before moving to Milwaukee in 1991 to become a dance instructor. Over the next several years, he worked at C’est La Vie, Partners and In Between.
He raised money for Milwaukee AIDS Project (now ARCW) by doing drag and becoming a Possum Queen candidate. He performed as Lana St. James in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin for anyone with a cause, including the annual fundraiser MAP Fest.
In 1999, he began tending bar at Triangle, 135 E. National Ave., and he became the bar’s owner/operator. In this position, his philanthropy, love of drag, and love of a good party came together and flourished.
Marr touched many in the community in small personal ways in addition to his more public giving. Sometimes it was as simple as opening his business to them and giving them a place to be comfortable. Sometimes it was a small loan. Often times it was listening and then giving some hard but correct advice.
Marr believed the gay community in Milwaukee should be as proud as the communities in New York, L.A. and Chicago.
Inspired by their parades, he commissioned a Pride flag half a block long, which has become a major element in Milwaukee’s annual Pride parade. He shared his pride by taking the flag to march in the Pride parade in his hometown of Provincetown.
With his weekly drag shows, Marr gave a home to performers from all walks of life where they could practice and hone their craft.
Marr was an icon within the community, always there to help, giving time and effort to various charities and friends. His friends will, with heavy hearts, miss his quick wit and humor.
Marr enjoyed travel and art but most of all he enjoyed people and his community. Through Triangle, he expanded the community to include those on the outskirts or previously not included. Gay, straight, tranny, young, old, in between – all were equal in his eyes.
Marr is survived by his mother, Linda Michelle Knight of Albuquerque, Cape Cod and Milwaukee; his brother Michael Wayne Knight of Dubuque; his brother Cole Lee Knight of Albuquerque; Anthony R. Gonzalas, his father figure; Matilda, his beloved min-pin; and too many close friends to list, as well as uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews in New Mexico, Cape Code, and California.
Marr will truly be missed and leaves a hole in hearts and the community.
In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ name can be made to STD Specialties, 3251 N. Holton St., Milwaukee 53212.
