James Lee Ives

On March 21, 2021, James Lee Ives left behind the burdens of this world to join his loving wife in the eternal presence of Jesus, his Savior. Jim (a.k.a. "Jimbo" and "Shamus") was born in Watertown, NY on April 10, 1944. After graduating from Watertown High School, he joined the navy, serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis as well as in Vietnam as a medic. He later joined the Army, the Army National Guard, and the Army Reserves retiring with a rank of Master Sergeant. He was proud to have faithfully and devotedly served his country for 23 years. Through the years, Jim worked in various fields, including as a corrections officer, a veterinary assistant, and a lock tender on the Erie Canal. Most recently, he worked as a school bus driver, sharing stories and jokes with the children he transported. He was a lifelong learner, expanding his knowledge through courses offered in the service and at local community colleges. Jim married his best friend, Carol, in 1983 in Fort Edward, NY. Together they enjoyed a full and happy life moving from the Hudson Falls/South Glens Falls area to Rome, NY and finally retiring to the Nashua/Manchester area. Jim appreciated music, even playing guitar in a garage band during his youth. More recently, he was welcomed into the church choir where he shared his wonderful baritone voice. He was a master woodworker, building birdhouses and making beautiful furniture to share with loved ones. Especially cherished are the cradles he crafted for his grandchildren. His other pleasures include fishing, gardening and spending time with family. Carol predeceased Jim in 2019. Left behind to preserve his memory are his loving stepchildren and their families: Lisa & Anthony White, Sue Mandolare, Jayme Allen, Jennie & Bill Britton, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Jim rose above difficulties he faced early in his life to become a very special man. He was a strong and gentle soul, and while he generally appeared as reserved and stoic, he loved to laugh and make others laugh. He was kind and giving. His final selfless act was being an organ donor. He will be laid to rest in the New Hampshire State Veterans' Cemetery in Boscawen, NH following a service to be held Friday, March 26th at 1:00 PM. For those wishing to make a donation in Jim's name, please give to the Gary Sinise Foundation, PO Box 368, Woodland Hills, CA, 91365 or the American Cancer Society, 2 Commerce Dr. Suite 210, Bedford, NH 03110. For an online guestbook, please visit www.neunfuneralhomes.com