James Sleeman

James Sleeman

1926 - 2014 BENNINGTON James J. Sleeman, 88, a long time resident of Bennington, died Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014 following a brief illness. Born in Bennington on June 19, 1926, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mable (Kahwajy) Sleeman. Jim received his education in the local schools, including the Saint Francis deSales Academy. Jim enlisted with the army in October of 1944 and served with the 106th Infantry during World War II. He was honorably discharged in August of 1944. On his return home from service, he was employed at the former Polygraphic Company in North Bennington for the better part of the next 40 years prior to his retirement in 1989. He also started the printing company, Poly Two Press, after large-scale printing operations ceased at the Polygraphic site. While employed at Polygraphic he was a member and president of the local chapter of the Graphic Communications International Union. Jim was a long time member and past exalted ruler of Bennington Elks Lodge 567. He had also been a member of Putnam Hose Company, Bennington Fire Department; VFW Post 1332, American Legion Post 13 and Bennington Moose Lodge 1233. In his spare time he enjoyed doing carpentry. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Michael and Kathryn Sleeman of Bennington and three grandchildren, Rachel Sleeman of St. Louis, MO., Matthew Sleeman, of Boston, MA and Andrea Sleeman of Bennington. Jim was predeceased by his former wife, Mary L. (Samia) Sleeman, a daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter, Christine, Matthew and Lisa Seifert and his wife, Eve Kelloff Sleeman. FUNERAL NOTICE: Friends are invited to pay their respects to the family at the Mahar & Son Funeral Home on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. when the family will be in attendance. All members of Elks Lodge 567 are asked to meet at the Mahar & Son Funeral Home Friday at 6 p.m. to conduct services for PER James Sleeman. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire memorial contributions in James J. Sleeman's memory, they may be made to either VNA & Hospice of Southwestern Vermont or to the Bennington Rescue Squad through the office of the Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201. Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net.