Brian James Obituary

Brian G. James 1977 - 2013 WESTFIELD - Brian George James, 35, died peacefully at home Sunday, January 27, 2013. He was born in Holyoke on February 9, 1977. He grew up in Huntington and graduated from Gateway Regional High School in 1995. Brian attended S.T.C.C. for auto mechanics. He owned and operated B&D Variety in Huntington. He served on the Huntington Board of Health. He also worked at Springfield Mack in West Springfield. Brian most recently worked as Assistant Service Manager for Came-rota Truck Parts in Enfield, CT. Brian enjoyed Nascar, camping, shooting, beer tasting events, and especially spending time with family and friends, including several special aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Brian leaves his recent wife Sandi (Bongiovanni) James, his parents Jon and Diana (Dahill) James of Lyman S.C., his brothers Doug James of Duncan, S.C., Andy James and his wife Amber of Monson, his mother-in-law Sue Bongiovanni, brother-in-law Kevin Bongiovanni and his wife Shelley and his sister-in-law Pam Gonzalez and her husband Ivan. The funeral for Brian will be held on Saturday February 2, at 5 pm at the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. Calling hours will be held 2-5 at the funeral home on Saturday before the service. In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Brian may be made to the Brian James Memorial Fund, c/o United Bank, 10 Elm Street, Westfield, MA 01085. Burial will be in Norwich Bridge Cemetery in Huntington at the convenience of the family. Firtionadams.com

Published by The Republican from Jan. 30 to Jan. 31, 2013.
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Remembering you today Brian, and your family. Natalie Avery

Natalie

Friend

January 25, 2024

Brian,
On this anniversary, I think about the kind man you had become in such a short life here on this earth. Your spirit flies on the streets that we will meet. Natalie,Em, El, Wyatt Avery

Natalie

Friend

April 29, 2023

We still miss you Brian. Terry, Aaron & Josh HAll

The Hall family in Montgomery

Friend

April 25, 2023

I was Brian's nursery school teacher in Chester and there was not another child nicer than Brian. He went to Gateway with my two girls, Bozena and Ashleigh. He was a nice child, a great young adult and a wonderful man. I had not realized that Brian had passed until speaking with Bozena today.

Sharon Joe Kida

School

April 23, 2023

Georg and John

January 25, 2022

Remembering you often Brian. Continued thoughts and peace to your family and friends.

Natalie Avery

Friend

January 25, 2021

The boys an I think of yo often when remembering some of the activities you guys did together.

Terry Hall

January 29, 2020

Think of you often Brian.

Natalie Avery

Friend

January 28, 2020

We always remember Brian as a polite young man. Always willing to help in any way. He was an excellent mechanic, the type of friend Josh and Aaron appreciated. They always had vehicles needing his expertise.

Terry,Josh & Aaron Hall

January 25, 2019

You came on our camping trips and we took you for rides into the woods. Marje gave us a carriage that we called the off roader. That's because instead of the wimpy tiny wheeled umbrella strollers this one kicked butt in the woods. Never bounced you out of it once. Of course, you loved the adventure of it all and we loved having you along.

mom

January 30, 2014

You were fascinated with flowers from an early age. Then when you were much older, you'd stop by the house to see what flowers you could take from my gardens to give a special friend to cheer them up or just impress them.

mom

January 30, 2014

1-28-2014
When I left Andy at first day of school someone asked if I'd be uncomfortable about empty nest. It wasn't empty for long. You arrived a little more than a year later, 2-9-77, when we lived at our own first where Uncle Tom & Aunt Louise Duga used to live on Pine Street in Huntington, MA.

Thank you for being so considerate when you were born. Instead of arriving in wee hours of morning like Andy and Doug, you conveniently chose after supper. We were able to leave Andy and Doug with Aunt Kathy.
They were excited to have you return to their shared bedroom. Bunks for them and crib for you and just enough room to put clothes in built in bureau Uncle Tom had built.

Your delivery was the easiest and dad got to see you arrive in the delivery room. We have a copy of your bill from Providence Hospital in Holyoke for $850.53! What a bargain. We didn't know if you were going to be a boy or girl. You were a perfect gift and I appreciated how well you slept.

I'm attaching a photo of you at 1 month old, the newest member of our James gang.
Love, mom

January 28, 2014

Got a note and poem from Alice saying, "Memories of love and friendship are treasures to carry with you always." I didn't get to share it sooner so will do that today.
Here's the poem she cut out and sent: "My First Christmas in Heaven"
I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below,
With tiny lights, like heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear,
For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,
But the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir.
I have no words to tell you the joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me. I see pain inside your heart,
But I am not so far away. We really aren't apart.
So be happy for me, dear ones. You know I hold you dear,
And be glad I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I send you each a special gift from my heavenly home above.
I send you each a memory of my undying love.
After all, love is the gift, more precious than pure gold.
It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other as my Father said to do,
For I can't count the blessings or love He has for each of you.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I'm spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

Mom

January 27, 2014

We're thankful that we had you for almost 36 years. That's a whole lot of kindness, pranks and loving fun. I'm glad that Sandi was an incentive for you to play games. I fondly recall how your oddball challenges to Scattergory answers had us laughing heartily usually when we were at Andy's house.

Didn't know what to do to make today's one year mile marker unique. Keeping busy wasn't good enough. So we tried to do as Andy's BBC tattoo to honor you said, ‘remember the good times'.

Considered coyote target shooting like we did when the coyote killed our last cat in Mass. You were so proud of my Jr. NRA award from my teen years that it was hard to measure up while shooting in a standup position, especially since we shot prone in our competition matches. Dad and I enjoyed spending time with you that day.

We miss you and will never stop loving you. Mom and Dad

Mom & Dad

January 27, 2014

When the James Gang (affectionately known as the Rutabagas) decided to pay John and I a visit in Los Angeles during the early 1980's, we naturally wanted to show them all the must-see attractions but also a wilderness area or two. Placerita Canyon, a few miles north of the city, was a favorite getaway, for not only does it possess interesting topography but it was the the first spot in California where gold was discovered. It wasn't a rich lode lode but it made interesting history. Brian, at still an impressible age, was delighted with the idea and hopefully thought that we might strike it rich, too. After all, it happened once.
Wanting to please him and, yes, pull his leg a bit, we painted some appropriately sized rocks a vivid gold and stashed them in a knapsack on the day of the trip. Once at Placerita Canyon we broke away from the group and quickly placed our "gold" under a tree, hastily camouflaged by a few dry leaves. Returning to the family, we suggested a trip up the trail we had just taken. Approaching the hidden cache,
we paused for a moment commenting how this area was near the famous tree and stream where gold was first discovered. Rising to this comment, Brian carefully search the surrounding ground. "Gold!" he gleefully shouted, quickly brushing away the offending leaves. His joy was only slightly subdued by all of our smiles. He'd been tricked, but still he had discovered
"gold" of some sort.
This is only one of our favorite memories of a very happy Southern California visit. Many Cheers to Brian....and all the
Rutabagas!
Aloha,
Georg and John

Georg James

March 29, 2013

To the James Gang, I have found in my own life the limited existence of things here on earth, but I am greatful that Jesus has opened the door for eternity after I let him into my heart. I pray that your emptiness will be filled and your memories cherished treasures.

Rob Dahill

March 8, 2013

This is a tribute letter to my brother in-law Brian James.

The name “Brian James” speaks for itself, a “James” through and through. A good man, a helpful man, a hardworking man, a man with a bigger heart than most could dream of. The one who gave of himself no matter how tired he was…because that's what is meant to be one of the “James Gang”. He was, and is, my brother in-law.
Brian was also a great uncle who always had good advice and a big smile for my sons from the day his brother, Andy, and I met. From that day forward he welcomed myself and my boys as family and I admire him for his huge heart of gold.
Not only was he a great brother in-law and uncle he was also the true love of my sister in-law Sandi and Sandi was, and is, the love of his life. I will never forget how beautiful Sandi was walking down the aisle and the smile on Brian's face knowing he found his soul mate. The day was magical and I knew at that moment I had a sister for life… and I still do.
Lets not forget how cool Brian was! We all ‘busted many a rib' at our annual NASCAR race weekends over some good times! Bon fires, cold beers, friends, family and horseshoes. I'll never forget his glow in the dark tent or Sandi and Brian's “condo sized” tent! BOY Brian always had the best tents! I'm smiling just writing this. He always had an extra piece of wood for the fire and the first one up to cook breakfast over the fire the next morning! We all miss you sooo much!!
It's time for a toast!!! A toast to Brian! Hold your drinks high….a LITTLE HIGHER and repeat after me, “Brian you were one of the best and will be remembered and missed by us all. Cheers on your journey and Cheers to you, Brian James, for being the great guy that you were!”

From your sister in-law,
*I know you heard us…
Amber

Amber

March 2, 2013

I am so sorry to hear this news, I have known Brian for several years and have worked close with him on a business level.
Brian has always been an honest, straight forward & "tell it like it is" guy, he was a complitment to the company.
He will be missed.

Eric Lee

February 21, 2013

Brian was my favorite child in Kids and Such Nursery School. He got along well with everyone. He was polite, thoughtful and empathetic. I ran into Brian a few years ago and he still had all those wonderful qualities he showed in nursery school.

Sharon Kida

February 4, 2013

I'm so sorry to hear about Brian. I didn't hear about it until Saturday night otherwise you know I would have been there. Just know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.

Nancy Toussaint

February 4, 2013

Greatly saddened by the news of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all who's lives were touched by knowing Brian

Gene and Lori King

February 3, 2013

I have fond childhood memories of Brian, my brother and I, spending many afternoons playing in the woods, riding bikes and just hanging out. It was always an advanture. He will be missed, specially his smile and the way he was always so kind to people. My thoughts and preys are with you family. I hope his memory will fill the emptiness that your loss has made.

Jessica Slater

February 3, 2013

Sandi, I am glad you and Brian found each other. He touched so many with his kindness, humor and his smile. He will be missed so much. You and the James family are in our thoughts.There is another angel looking down... RIP

Cindy Dickinson & Tim Scheible

February 3, 2013

Dear Sandi,& all Family members,
I am deeply sadden by your loss.Brian was one of the kindest & good natured person I have known.He had a gentleness about him and I will always remember him that way.May you find comfort at this time.Sending Prayers and Peace to you.
Sincerely,
Maryann

Maryann Brown

February 2, 2013

Sandi, our prayers go out to you. we've never met, but Brian was a good friend and a great man. He will be greatly missed. Tom & Persis Broga

February 2, 2013

Sandi, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this hard time. God bless you.

Bruce and Marie Scheible

February 2, 2013

I am so saddened to hear the news of Brian's passing. I had just recently heard about his marriage, and was so happy for him. I only hope all the family can take some comfort in what a great guy Brian was, and how many people felt his goodness. God Bless.

Kay Marcia

February 2, 2013

I have such great memories of Brian, as far back as I can recall, he has always been an incredible friend. He was the person that saw my first car accident (mini van off bridge in Huntington) and stopped and stayed by my side for what felt like hours before help arrived. We spend a lot of time together throughout high school and beyond, and I have never been happier for someone than when I saw his recent wedding photos. Brian, love you an miss you friend...My prayers & love go out to his beautiful wife and his loving family & friends...all great people. Brian made everyone's life he touched, better...

Jen Wainscott-Cloutier

February 2, 2013

To all of Brian's family and friends, So sorry for your loss, Our prayers are thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Jan and Russ Smith

February 2, 2013

I did not know Brian well, but he was always smilling and joking and a sweet and kind person. My heart breaks for the family. You are in my prays

Robin (Stipek) Knowlton

February 2, 2013

You are missed. You are loved. You left us too soon, but your life touched so many. There are counless memories with you in it...all of them bring a smile to your friends and families faces. That was your gift to us. The people who had the honor of knowing you. Rock on with the angels.

Sarah Crawford

February 1, 2013

RIP Brian, thank you for taking care of my truck at Camerota's. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. God bless.

Dennis Bolduc

February 1, 2013

Brian you will be missed, love and prayers for your family. I'm so gratefull you were my friend and a part of my life.

Emily Broga

February 1, 2013

Our thoughts are with Brian and his family at this difficult time. R.I.P. Brian and keep an eye on your loved ones!
Frank Goff and Jeannette Farnham

February 1, 2013

With deepest sympathy to Jon & Diana &
brothers, and Brian's wife. Brian has
received God's crown of eternal life. May God place his hand on family & friends who morn "An Angel" who left us
too soon. In the name of the "Father,son and Holy Spirit.
Jim & Carol O'Grady & sons

February 1, 2013

We are so sorry.

peter and linda lewis

January 31, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you find strength in the Lord at this time of sorrow, lean on him as you go through this difficult time.

Cathy Kerr

Cathy Kerr

January 31, 2013

"Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal; Love leaves a memory that no one can steal." Anonymous

When I saw Sandi and Brian before their August wedding, it was so evident how very much they loved each other.

Words cannot express the depth of our sympathy for Sandi, the James family, and the Bongiovanni family. What a shocking and tragic loss.

Our prayers are with you all while you grieve.
-Maura, Ethan & Eamon

Maura Ducharme

January 31, 2013

My condolences to your family. Thoughts and prayers are with you folks.

With sympathy,
Amy Malinowski

January 31, 2013

Brian will be missed by many. If you had the pleasure of knowing him, you know what an all around great guy he was,and how lucky you were just to know him. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.
Paula &Dan LaBranch, Dominique & Landon

January 31, 2013

To the James family i am so sorry for your loss, may you find comfort in the happy times you all shared. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Pamela Pratt

January 31, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with the James family. Brian will be sadly missed he was a great guy and friend to many.

Pam & Rick Bartlett

January 31, 2013

Sandi,we are so sorry for your loss.Hold your memories close and your friends even closer.GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY aunt jan & robert

January 31, 2013

Our prayers go out to the James Family God Bless You

grace and Donnie Dugas

January 31, 2013

The Lavallee Family

January 31, 2013

Amy, Todd, Jake and Abbie Balser

January 31, 2013

Sandi & family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers go out to you all! Brian was a great guy and will be missed.

Bob & Becky Decker

Rebecca Decker

January 31, 2013

Sandi, in just the short time we spent on Sat. Looking over pictures you took for us, we got the chance to talk about your sweet husband,and I got to see some of your wedding pix's.He is the love of your life, he always will be, these same pix's you shared with me are now, much more valuable.
My heart just hurts for you and for all of Brians family & friends.You are in my thoughts,and prayers.
Janet & Dean Davis

Janet&Dean Davis

January 31, 2013

Sandi,
My condolences go out to you and your family during this tough time.

Rick Winkler

January 31, 2013

Jon and Diana. Our hearts go out to you and your family at this very difficult time.

Araina Heath

January 31, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. Brian was a long time friend and we will all miss him dearly. You are all in my thoughts at this very sad time. May all the good memories of Brian always be with you.

Paula Roit

January 31, 2013

We are so sorry for your loss. Brian was such an amazing person and friend. Although we haven't seen him in a few years, he was that sort of person who truly left a smile on your face. Words cannot express how sorry we are he is gone but know he will never be forgotten.

Steve & Karen Piro

January 31, 2013

shelley

January 31, 2013

To the James family,
You were always wonderful neighbors "right up the hill". All of the kids that grew up on Lowell Lane loved to hang out with Brian. He was an important part of our childhood. I last saw Brian (and met Sandy for the first time) at my last 1995 reunion held at the Rapids in Huntington. It was great night. I'll always remember talking to Brian and Sandy for a while afterwards in the parking lot. I never would have guessed that would be my last goodbye.

Leah (Silver) Graves

January 31, 2013

Our sincere condolences are with the entire James family. We watched Brian grow from a young lad to a fine young man. He indeed will be missed by all who knew him and we are very sorry for your loss.

Doug and Adrene Adams

January 31, 2013

Kris Lombardi

January 31, 2013

I am saddened by the loss of Brian. All of you are in my prayers.

Carol Dahill

January 31, 2013

Sandi and Family,

We are all truly sadden by the news of Brain's untimely passing. He was truly one of the nicest people I had ever known or will ever know. He was always smiling! Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Adam Bartlett

January 31, 2013

Sandi and Family.
Greatly saddened for your loss and wish you peace.

Ron Ossen

January 31, 2013

Sandi-
I know there really is nothing anyone can say in this time of grief for you. All I can say is Take it a day at a time and god will be with you through it. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Im sorry you have to go through this.

Debbie Dwoske

January 31, 2013

Sorry about your loss Brian was a good kid,I only ran into him now and again but he never had bad things to say about anyone .
Your neighbor Kevin Schmith

January 31, 2013

The Brian that I will remember will be the smiling face and alway a friendly hello...from our school days and after that. Getting a pat on the back because my truck was bigger than his... Sandi, althought we dont know each other, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. So sorry for your loss.

Athena Skwira

January 31, 2013

Sandy and family - So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
The Laboranti Family

Ali Laboranti

January 31, 2013

Sandi,

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad and difficult time.

Kimberly Messier

January 31, 2013

Sandi and family,
Words cannot express how terribly sorry I am for you all, I take some comfort in knowing that you have the most wonderful family to help you get through this very sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Chantal McGill

January 31, 2013

Sandi, Although no words can lessen your pain, please know that we send our thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

Missy Colberg

January 31, 2013

My heart breaks as I think of my brother (in-law)and all he did to add life and joy to so many. It would take me forever to remember all the things that Brian did for me and our family. He made us laugh and cry, and will be so VERY much missed. God bless you, Sandi, and the James family. There are no words to say that will make you feel better. May I just say that the God of all peace be with you all. We will miss you, Brian.

Rebecca James

January 31, 2013

Brian, may you rest in the arms of the angels forever. You will be missed.

Judie Guyette

January 31, 2013

Sandi and family, Words can not express how sorry we are for your loss! Brian was a great man, always smiling and will be deeply missed by all! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time! Kevin Barlow & Christina Dingman

January 31, 2013

From The Grant Family...Brian you will be missed. Your kindness to people went along way. That is how we will remember you. Rest in Peace our friend.

The Grant Family

January 31, 2013

Our love and prayers to James and Bongiovanni families. Deeply saddened by your loss. May Brian's spirit surround you with comfort. God Bless.

Kelly & Gary Francoeur & Family

January 31, 2013

We are so sorry for your loss. Brian will be missed.

Rob+Donna Barnes

January 31, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my prayers.

January 31, 2013

There are no words that can express our sorrow for your loss. Just know that our family will be there to help in any way possible.

Terry&Sue Hall

January 31, 2013

Thoughts and prayers for all of Brian's family and friends during this difficult time.
Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.
Wishing you comfort and peace.

Jennifer St Sauveur

January 31, 2013

Lisa Cannavo

January 31, 2013

Sandi,our thoughts and prayers are with you ,

Giles family

January 30, 2013

I love my brother so much. Our family is so proud of Brian and will always miss him and will be forever grateful for the time we had. Brian touched so many lives, many in major ways but some in seemingly small ways that turned out to have a lasting impact on them. So much in his life has inspired me and I consider it a privilege to let others know how special a person Brian is!!!! My heart hurts because he is gone now, but I look forward to seeing him one day. My hope is that his life here will impact me in such a way that I will be able to thank him for his example when we are reunited one day! I LOVE YOU BRIAN

Doug James

January 30, 2013

May you be at Peace my Friend. I hope your Family and Friends understand just how many people you touched with your great personality. Truly a Gentleman. You will not be forgotten.

Tim Colby

January 30, 2013

so sad to lose such a young age! my prayers go out to his wife and family.

Erick Chase

January 30, 2013

Brian was an amazing man that always knew how to make you smile :) He will be missed greatly. Sandi, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love You Kelly, Louie, and Tobey Dupuis

January 30, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, may God Bless you all at the most difficult time.

Dale & Barbara Small

January 30, 2013

Kristen Gauthier

January 30, 2013

Kristen Gauthier

January 30, 2013

I cannot even begin to express how sorry I am. We will love and miss Brian always. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Debbie Dugas

January 30, 2013

Sandi and Family,

There are no words that can describe the saddness that we feel, our hearts are broken for you and Brians' family. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God Bless you and help you through this very sad time.

Carl and Kate Pagella

January 30, 2013

My deepest sympathy goes to the James family, Brian was a wonderful person, gone too soon.

Jennifer Scacca (gebo)

January 30, 2013

Brian, you touched more lives than you know. Your smile and kindness is an example of how each of us should live. My heart breaks for Sandi and your family during this time. Our Sincere Condolences

Celeste Rossi

January 30, 2013

Cindy Camp

January 30, 2013

Sandy, friends and the entire James family, I hope all your love combined will carry you through your grief. Brian will be sadly missed by many. God Bless, Natalie Avery

Natalie Avery

January 30, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers with with all of you.

Bill and Karon Hathaway

January 30, 2013

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