James Altman Sr.

Pioneering attorney and community leader James J. Altman Sr. died Monday night at the age of 83. Altman first opened his law practice in 1952 and the firm continues to this day at 5628 Main St. Altman's large family includes Peter Altman, the former New Port Richey mayor and county commissioner. "He perfected the art of fatherhood," Peter said today in tribute to his father. In 2005, he became the first inductee into the Hall of Fame of the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce for his community involvement. Altman played an "instrumental role" in starting West Pasco Hospital in 1965. Originally owned by Pasco County, it was the first hospital in the New Port Richey area. The county later sold the hospital and following subsequent changes is now known as Morton Plant North Bay Hospital. Active in the city Parks and Recreation Department, Altman Sr. helped plan and construct the original city pool at the recreation complex on Van Buren Street. He was the first person to dive into the pool when it opened in the mid-1970s. The pioneering attorney devoted many hours to Little League Baseball here as well. He insisted every player get a chance at bat. For many years, Altman led the Florida Bar real estate and probate division. Altman's survivors include his second wife, Mildred; seven children, Jay, Ann, Bob, Peter and Tom Altman; Joan Anderson and Janet DuPont; stepchildren Patty and Steven; a brother, Fran Altman of Pittsburgh; 15 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. A funeral Mass will be 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in New Port Richey. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 2, at Michels and Lundquist Funeral Home, 5228 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the West Pasco Little League, P.O. Box 1323, New Port Richey 34656.