James E. LaMere

James E. LaMere passed away at St. Francis Hospital on March 2, 2020, surrounded by family members.  He was born in New Hartford on April 8, 1946, son of the late Walter and Elizabeth LaMere. He was the husband of Arlene LaMere.

          Jim served proudly in the US Navy for 4 years during the Vietnam War era, although not in combat capacity. He was on the USS Enterprise for Operation Sea Orbit which was an around the world cruise. It was the first circumnavigation of the world by a nuclear-powered surface warship. He also did tours on the USS Randolph and the USS Remey. He stopped in 26 countries during those tours. His grandchildren liked to interview “Grampy” about his experiences on the ships and to ask him to recall the names of all the countries he visited so they could find and plot them on a world map.

          A skilled carpenter, Jim worked for many years building custom homes. His meticulous work led to one of the kitchens he installed being displayed in a country magazine. Remodeling, however, was his specialty and where his true talent was evident. He could find a solution for any problem that might arise.

          Jim found joy in baking and decorating treats on special occasions, including birthdays, for his daughters’ elementary school classes. Even when they entered college, he would surprise them when they came home on weekends with foods like “Halloween potatoes” {mashed carrots and potatoes) or chocolate chip pancakes. He started the tradition of cooking a grand Christmas morning breakfast that he lovingly prepared while his children, and in later years, grandchildren, opened gifts.

          Since childhood, Jim was an avid fan of the New York Yankees. He enjoyed, on occasion, going to Yankee Stadium with his daughter and son-in-law to watch them play. Later in life, he became a fan of the UConn Women’s and Men’s Basketball Teams. He rarely missed watching a game.

          This obituary would not be complete without mention of Jim’s love and respect for all animals. Many a stray found its way to the back deck and some to a forever home. One in particular, a small black cat he named Oliver, formed a close bond with Jim for 16 years.

          In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his daughters, Rene LaMere and Jaime LaMere (husband Donovan Riley), his beloved grandchildren, Vivienne, James (his namesake), Jack, and Thomas Riley all of Torrington, brother John LaMere (Barbara) of Las Vegas, loving sister Patricia Cappabianca of Winchester, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by several siblings.

          Jim was always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed.

          Services were private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Little Guild of St. Francis, 285 Sharon-Goshen Tpke, West Cornwall, CT 06796 or to Parkinson’s research.

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