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James Atherton Obituary
LEBANON - James Peter Atherton, 23, died on Saturday, March 16, at home, surrounded by his family.
Jim was raised in Lebanon and graduated from Noble High School, cum laude, in 2007. While battling cancer, he received an Associate's degree in Business Administration from New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord, N.H.
He furthered his education at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester, N.H., receiving a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, magna cum laude. In addition to being a student at SNHU, he was an intern for the Manchester Monarchs, announcer for sporting events at SNHU, a Cal Ripken umpire, and a substitute teacher at Barrington, N.H., Elementary School, where the students called him "Mr. Awesome," all while receiving chemotherapy treatments at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston.
Jim was an avid sports enthusiast, playing baseball, soccer and ice hockey in high school. Jim received many awards for sportsmanship.
Jim started playing the violin at age 8, beginning with the squeaks and bow fights, but ultimately becoming a virtuoso.
He loved to hunt and fish with his dad and brother. He had a passion for adventure, traveled 39 states, visited Scotland, England and Canada. He counted Hawaii and the Outerbanks as two of his favorite destinations.
Jim was a kind and caring soul. He had an infectious energy and smile that could brighten anyone's day. Throughout his cancer battle, he never shed a tear, facing every trial and tribulation with a determination and courage to beat the disease. He was a man of character and reminded all of us to appreciate the gift of living each day to the utmost. Jim was always on the "go," squeezing in as much as he could; he usually arrived just in the nick of time. Jim's sense of humor will be missed!
He leaves behind his father, Richard "Lee" Atherton, Jr.; mother, Karen (Bristol) Atherton; and brother/best friend, Phillip Atherton; grandparents, Marion and Roger Coughlin, and Rachel Atherton; aunts and uncles, Shell and Ron Lagasse, Julie and Neil Mortlock, Amanda Bristol, Robin and Brian Manley and John and Laurie Maranda; cousins, Joelle Bristol, Sean Lagasse, Tara Showkeir, Tristan Manley, John and Ben Maranda. Claire Shaw, Kim Mueller, Joyce Dionne, Tom Erlenbach and Sophia Pooler were a few of the special friends who gave him tremendous strength and support throughout his illness.
Jim was predeceased by his great grandparents, Peter and Nellie Weiers; grandfathers, Richard Atherton and Paul Bristol; and his special "adopted" grandmother, Gram.
Jim's family has been touched by the many friends and family who have offered kindness and unconditional support through this difficult journey. At MGH, Jim was surrounded by the love and care of Judianne, Ashleigh, Danielle, Dunielle, Molly, Gerry, Dr. Harmon and Dr. Choy and so many more health care professionals. We would also like to thank Cornerstone VNA, Rochester for helping us take care of Jim at home.
Visiting hours will be Friday, March 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home at 26 Market St. in North Berwick, Maine. A Celebration of Jim's life will be on Saturday, March 23, at 11 a.m. at the Bethel Christian Church at 129 Lower Main St. in North Berwick.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a fund that would directly benefit the research and goal of curing sarcoma. Checks should be made to: "MGH Sarcoma Fund" and sent to: MGH Development Office, c/o Bob O'Brien, 165 Cambridge St., Suite 600, Boston, Mass. 02114.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhomeme.com.
Visit www.fosters.com/obits for an online guest book.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Atherton
April 17, 2013
To Lee, Karen and Phil,
It was truly wonderful knowing your son Jimmy. He was an AMAZING and CARING soul. Of course, he will be missed beyond words. Just know that your family is in our prayers, as well as Jimmy. God Bless.
The Marshall family
April 8, 2013
I'm so sorry to hear of the news today. Jim was an absolute joy to work with, with a heart of gold and a desire to help. Extremely positive, cheery, and optimistic. The crew at Chauncey Creek sends our condolences.
Carol Vance
March 26, 2013
Just saw the photo of your name in lights at the baseball park...your name will always be in lights...thinking of you and your family
March 26, 2013
Missing you today, tomorrow & always :-(
March 26, 2013
Dear Atherton Family and Friends,
Please accept our deepest sympathies and prayers for healing.
Bob O'Brien
Massachusetts General Hospital
Tammy Spinney
March 24, 2013
To the Atherton family,
It was wonderful knowing your son.Loved his smile,sense of humor and his outlook on life.(POSITIVE)
I'm SO thankful Jimmy got to be home with you by his side.You are an amazing family.My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
March 23, 2013
Dearest Karen, Lee and Phil,
I feel blessed to have met Jim and knew instantly that he was a unique "supernova" that happened to be subbing in our classroom at the ECLC. I will forever be in gratitude for Jim's brief appearance in my life and the genuine goodness, he possessed that expanded my heart. I hope you can call upon the strength of his love and courage in days to come. With deep love and sympathy, Donna Phofolos and family.
Peter and Linda Mantegani
March 23, 2013
Karen, Marion and the entire Bristol and Atherton Families,
We are so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. I don't recall ever meeting Jim, but I know what a wonderful young man we was. We followed his struggles from a distance and prayed for him often. Go forward with the knowledge that his spirit lives on in the hearts of all of you who loved him.
March 23, 2013
Our thought and prayers are with you and your family. Jeff and Sue Lunn
Tara Datro
March 22, 2013
Karen my son was a student of yours at barrington middle school, Danny Burke We both have you in our thoughts And are very sorry.
The Palmer Family
March 22, 2013
From our family to yours, we send our heartfelt sympathy.
Andy Avery
March 22, 2013
Karen, Lee, and Phillip, I am so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He leaves quite a legacy as a role model and inspirational leader.
Paul Hogan
March 22, 2013
Dear Atherton Family,
We are all saddened by the Jim's passing here at NHTI and the NHTI Athletic Department. I had the pleasure of working with Jim on a variety of fronts here at NHTI inlcuding the classroom, soccer field and around campus. Jim was a real positive person in every sense. We share your sadness.
Jim was a great addition to all the classes, the SM Club and our fine soccer team.
We will be thinking of Jim during this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Sincerely, Paul Hogan, Director of Athletics, Professor of Sports Management
George and Diane Gowen
March 22, 2013
To the Atherton Family,
Having had the opportunity to coach Jimmy at Noble High for a couple of years, my experiences taught me what kind of young man Jimmy was. Jimmy was a polite, thoughtful, caring friend and a great teammate with a smile bigger than any room. Im sure he will be missed by all he has met. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
Kate Runey, MGH Oncology NP
March 22, 2013
Dear Atherton Family,
I had the pleasure of caring for Jimmy during his hospitalization on Lunder 9. It was truly an honor to meet him: I have never met a more dedicated and determined patient. Even on the toughest day, he would still find a way to smile. His positivity was refreshing. I pray that someday soon a cure for cancer will be found. Sending you all warn thoughts during this painful time of loss.
Gary & Pam Fieldsend
March 22, 2013
Lee, Karen, and Philip;
We are heartbroken to hear of the loss of your precious James. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May your memories of James be forever a comfort, knowing that his life was a positive, courageous example to all. Our deepest sympathies.
Bill Hutchings
March 22, 2013
Lee, Karen, Phillip and All...
I had the wonderful pleasure in life to come across the person that Jim Atherton came to be during his late teens as he was growing to manhood. He, Phillip and his Dad would all work together giving me a hand(s) where many were needed. He had a personality and aura about him that would make you smile and happy to be around and work with. He was a great kid then, that turn into a charming young man that life took away from us all far too early. His absence will be felt by all of us who knew him, and my sorrow can not be expressed enough for the loss of such a wonderful son.
I pray that memories of the life you all shared and enjoyed with him during his living years will help see you through these heart-wrenching days proceeding his celebration of life.
The Sinclair Family
March 22, 2013
Dear Atherton Family,
Although we haven't seen Jimmy in a very long time he is fondly remembered. We cannot even begin to imagine the heartache your family must feel. One of the fondest memories of Jimmy is when he took his bike to our house and went on a bike ride with Brad without telling his mom and she came looking for him. Hopefully little memories will pop up in the upcoming days, months & years to bring a smile to your lips & touch of joy to your hearts, instead of sorrow. It is obvious that Jimmy became a very well accomplished young man in his 23 year's on this earth and an inspiration for those around him. I am sure his legacy will carry on through the people he inspired throughout his life. Our thoughts are with you & your entire family.
Bill Nickerson
March 22, 2013
Lee, Karen, and Phillip,
May you find peace and comfort in your family and friends during this difficult time.
Jeff Monroe
March 22, 2013
Lee and Family,
My thoughts are with you and your family thru this difficult time. Your family was a very important part of my life while I was growing up and I am very sorry for your loss. Although I never met your Son it sounds like he was a very special person and the good times and memories that you have of him will be a gift that many people never receive. Stay strong and my thoughts are with you.
Brandon McGorry
March 21, 2013
Dear Mr & Mrs. Atherton, Phillip, & Family:
I had the privilege of meeting Jim, while he was a student at NHTI. Jim had such a wonderful outlook on life and never wasted a minute of it. Jim understood how precious life was.
Jim had a wonderful sense of humor, his smile and laugh always brightened a room. Jim was able to establish a positive rapport with everyone.
Jimmy, thank you for all the wonderful memories. You will be missed by all. I feel honored to call you, my friend. Thank you for forcing me to see the movie, "The Other Guys." Every time I watch it, I will think of you!
March 21, 2013
Lee,Karen and Philip,You are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.
My deepest sympathy Bruce(Woody)Wood
Fran and Stan Swier
March 21, 2013
Dear Karen and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. With sincere sympathy.
Marie/Donn Calvi
March 21, 2013
Lee and Karen we are heartbroke at this news of your family's struggle.We did not know your son though I think we of liked to have known him.He is a good man with a love of sports and the will to want to help others,that is a good person.Please hold on to those values and timed shared,they are your times.Our Prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time.
Ken Rorick
March 21, 2013
Lee and family, so sorry for your loss
Mark and Betty Richardson
March 21, 2013
Karen, Lee and Phil
We are truely sorry to hear of Jimmys passing. Jimmy will forever be in our hearts.Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love Mark and Betty
Wes Gowen
March 21, 2013
Mr. and Mrs. Atherton and Phil,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jimmy. He was a great person, teammate and a better friend. He accomplished more in 23 years than many will in their entire lives. He always knew how to bring a smile and could brighten any day. One of the many things I loved about Jimmy was the way you could just see him, no matter how many years it had been, and he was still the same person and friend that you first loved to be around years ago. Just like last summer, during the annual Doucette hockey game, I hadn't seen Jimmy in a few years but after we first greeted in the arena, in no time, it was back to just the way it had always been in the high school locker room. He will never be forgotten, and his memory will always make me smile.
The entire Atherton family is in my thoughts and prayers
Deborah Emerson
March 21, 2013
Dear Lee, Karen and Phillip,
Someone as special as Jimmy will never be forgotten. May the wonderful memories you share provide some comfort during this difficult time.
My deepest sympathy.
Deborah Emerson
Michael & Susan Chambers
March 21, 2013
To the Atherton family. Our deepest condolences to all of you. When we heard of Jim's passing, our hearts broke for all of you. May God give you comfort during this difficult time.
Matthew 11:25-30
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Lorrie Cutter
March 21, 2013
Dear Karen and Family, I am sorry so for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I got to know Jim by subbing with him at BES. What a great guy! I enjoyed working with him very much and loved his sense of humor.
Linda Yerardi
March 21, 2013
Karen, Lee, Phil and families: we have no words to take away your pain, but want you to know how we admire you all for the strength, love, and determination shown the past 5 years! Jimmy will forever be in your hearts, our hearts, and we hope that with time all the special memories will help you cope and fill some of the space that is now grief, pain, and loss. It will never go away; he was such an amazing young man and we so hope the testimonials written here will help in the days ahead. We love and support you all! Linda, John, Kate and Jen
Matt and Becky Hagen
March 21, 2013
Dear Atherton Family, Our deepest condolences to you in your loss. Jimmy will be remembered by Bill and Ken with their memories of NHS soccer. He was an amazing person.
March 21, 2013
Neil and Julie my deepest condolences for your loss. My thoughts, prayers, and heart are with you and your whole family.Rest in peace sweet man.
Debbie Tsaknopoulos
Lasermax Roll Systems
Peg and Jay Wheeler
March 20, 2013
Our thoughts and sympathies are with you all. May you find strength in the community of love and strength that Jimmy and the love of you as a family have inspired. Please know that our prayers are with you.
Michael Dudley
March 20, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee, and Phillip,
I haven't forgotten Jimmy's place at the top of my first period Day 1 Physics roster. Jimmy was one of my best students, not just because he worked hard and did what he needed to do, but because he helped me learn why I love teaching. Great students do that for teachers, and do so well after they've left school. Jimmy did that for me.
God bless Jimmy, and God bless you all.
March 20, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee & Phillip and extended family,
I met Jimmy one time and what a smile, a twinkle in his eye! He's smiling down on you and no longer suffering. You're family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Peter Dube
March 20, 2013
Dear Lee,Karen and Philip,I am so sorry to hear of James passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and may you find comfort with all your wonderful memories of James.
Cindy Cassata
March 20, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son, Jimmy. He sounds like he was the most amazing young man and an inspiration to us all. I'm sorry I never got to meet him. My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family.
Donna Bird Bibbo
March 20, 2013
Dear Lee, Karen and Phillip,
I am so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He sounds like an amazing young man who lived his life to the fullest. Thinking of you all
Donna Bird Bibbo
March 20, 2013
Dear Lee, Karen and Phillip
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Jim. He sounds like an amazing young man who lived his life to the fullest. Thinking of you
Valerie Fortier
March 20, 2013
We remember Jim in his early years playing sports and hanging around the Leclerc home. We are so truly sorry for your loss. He had an absolute jois de vive. God Bless you and your family, Kristi & Chelsea's grandparents.
Valerie & Ron Fortier
Denise Griswold
March 20, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee and Phillip, I am so sorry for your loss. James sounds like a wonderful young man with many accomplishments. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Josh Gould
March 20, 2013
Karen, Lee, Phil:
I've thought for days about the effect Jimmy had on me. In reflection I thought about every single memory I could recall and one theme began to emerge; every single memory I had of him during his time at Noble was positive. It involved smiles between classmates and peers; it was the grit of determination when he was on the field; and it was the look of admiration others, both faculty and peers, sent his way. Each of us was better for having his life cross ours. What great accolades his life exhibits.
Phil, I know from losing one of my own best friends that the hurt never heals. Yet, as the days go on each of the memories confluence inside your head and become the most beautiful story ever written; a story which will never be forgotten and one you can replay during a moment where you might need a good bit of advice or on a day you need a chuckle.
May God Bless you all.
Joellyn Metcalf
March 20, 2013
My prayer and thoughts go out to the family! Although I only met James once he left a great impression on me soul! RIP young man.. You will be truly missed by so many lives that you have touch in your life.. And will never be forgotten.
March 20, 2013
Jim is in Heaven with my mom and brother. He will be missed...
Love,
The Corti's
Michael Smith
March 20, 2013
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Atherton,
I wanted to express our condolence for the lost of your son. I know that James has continued on with God in heaven.
I never knew or meet James, but seeing all the things he had accomplished in his short life, he had touched so many people that enjoyed his company.
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
I Have Called Upon Thee
I have called upon Thee,
For Thou wilt hear me, o Lord, and hear my speech.
Show Thy marvelous loving kindness, O Thou that savest by
Thy right hand those who put their trust in Thee from those
That rise up against them.
Keep me as the apple of thine eye;
Hide me under the shadow of Thy wings.
[Psalm 7: 6,7,8]
Lori Harmon
March 20, 2013
Dear Lee and Karen,
We are so sorry for your loss. Little Jimmy Atherton will always hold a special place in my heart. He has touched so many lives. I feel honored to have been blessed enough to have crossed paths with one amazing boy, who turned into a very handsome and talented and caring man. Jimmy was a very special human being. You and your family are in our prayers.
Love Tom and Lori Harmon
Lori Harmon
March 20, 2013
Jimmy,
You are one of the most amazing human beings I ever had the honor of crossing paths with. You will be truly missed by so many. You were loved by so many. You were a very special boy, and turned into a honorable man. I will never forget you.
Darren Imbeault
March 20, 2013
Lee & Karen, We are so sorry to hear about your son. You have all had such a long road. You raised an exceptional human being that the world has to few of. He will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Darren & Lori
Lee Ann Lewis
March 20, 2013
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Atherton,
I did not know Jim, but as the alumni director for NHTI, I have been notified of his passing by many, many people. Hearts have broken all over New Hampshire for the loss of your son. He sounds like he was truly an amazing, incredible, loving person and I wish that I had met him. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that the entire NHTI community is thinking of Jim, of your family and holding you all in our hearts.
Emily (Perkins) Henault
March 20, 2013
Karen and family,
I have heard of the tough battle Jim fought through my mom, Pam Perkins. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. It's a shame when someone who sounds like such a great person can no longer touch lives in a positive way- but on that note, it sounds like the world was a better place because of him!
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your entire family, and Jim's friends during this difficult time.
Cindy Spinney
March 20, 2013
I only had the pleasure of knowing Jimmy for a short time. I will always remember what a nice, polite, and sweet young man he was. I met him while he was working with both of my sons at Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier. Both of them shared in the opinion that he was a cool guy.....
Bonnie Pond and Terry Citak
March 20, 2013
Jimmy was so full of life and he made you smile everytime you saw him. We are so sorry for your lose. The world has truely lost a beautiful Soul.
camelia
March 20, 2013
Me uno a vuestro dolor. Un beso a toda la familia
March 20, 2013
Mrs. Atherton and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time, may Jim rest in peace.
Mindy and Travis O'Connor
Kevin and Christine Dodier
March 19, 2013
Lee and family,
Words can't express the sorrow we feel for you all. This world is a lesser place without Jimmy. Please accept our deepest sympathy, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rene Almon
March 19, 2013
Karen and family and all the Bristols,
I am so so sorry to read of the loss of your son. He sounds like he was quite an amazing person, the type the world needs more of. I have you all in my thoughts at this most difficult time.
Beth, John, Ryan and Chris Salinger
March 19, 2013
Karen, Lee and Phil,
Our hearts were broken when we heard the news of Jimmy. He was kind, generous, and his smile touched us all. You should be proud of the person he grew to be, for he will always be remembered for his warmth and his kind heart. We will miss him.
Gail Tessier Brown
March 19, 2013
We are so sorry for your tremendous loss. He led an amazingly rich life in such a short time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Gail, Paul,and Jillian Brown. Katy and Scott Solsky.
March 19, 2013
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Although I didn't get to spend too much time with Jim, it was a pleasure getting to know him. He was an inspiration to all!
Kathy Ahern and Family
Scott & Stephanie Harris
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee, and Phil,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you; words don't convey our sadness at your loss. May your memories give you peace. Love, Scott & Stevie Harris
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen & Lee, and Phillip, I have tried a million times to say something profound and healing and fail. I will say I hope I never know your pain; and that Jimmy's life will be your strength. It speaks for itself. He gave all so much love and laughter; a legacy to make you proud. That is something to hold on to. God Bless you Jimmy: God Bless the family.
Marty
N Berwick
Michael Minnon
March 19, 2013
A truly sad day when this world loses a young man of such joy and uniqueness. We grieve for and with you and will miss his always interesting stories
Dan Levesque
March 19, 2013
Dear Lee, Karen and Phil, my memories of Jimmy will always be good ones. He was always smiling and having fun. I will always remember him playing hockey on our pond and was usually the first kid there with a shovel and the last to leave. He was the kind of kid that would make any parent proud. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Ken McFarlane
March 19, 2013
Sending my condolences to Lee, Karen and Phillip. Sounded like he was an outstanding young man and well liked by everybody. Rest in Peace, Jim.
Rick and Laura Chapman
March 19, 2013
Dear Lee, Karen and Family,
We are so saddened to hear of Jim's passing. What a long, hard battle he fought. Although it was our loss to have never had the pleasure of knowing him, Rick and I know that he was a great young man that you are all so proud of ... a wonderful tribute to you and all who loved him. We are thinking of you at this difficult time and keeping you and Jim in our prayers.
Jeff Garlough
March 19, 2013
It's hard to say in words the sadness I feel for your loss, Atherton's. In the few conversations I had with Jimmy I could see why his Dad would say Jimmy could make friends with a complete stranger in a matter of minutes. It was so easy talking to Jimmy, he made it seem like he wanted nothing more than to be there talking to you. You'll be missed but your impact on the lives you touched felt forever.
Mark and Dawn Bristol
March 19, 2013
Karen and Family,
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Jim. In his 23 years in this life he has lived and touched more peoples lives than most people will ever do in a life time... Prayers and thoughts are with you through this difficult time.
Marie Frizzell
March 19, 2013
Jimmy was a light for everyone he came into contact with. He has made a lasting impact on so many lives, at such a young age. Praying for your family during this time. Take comfort in the fact that God is in control, even through loss and illness. Sending peace and love your way.
Deb Carr
March 19, 2013
Jim was a young man of courage and optimism, a shining example for every life he touched. May memories lift your spirits and family, faith, and friends see you through the trying times.
Maine Red Sox Nation visits NC Red Sox Nation
March 19, 2013
Red Sox Nation grieves the loss of Jim Atherton
March 19, 2013
RDT was the little league team that Jimmy and a few of his friends played on as well as his Brother Philip (Philly Cheese Steak)
March 19, 2013
Mark Morris
March 19, 2013
"On behalf of the Monarchs hockey staff and players we would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to Jim's family and friends. His love of life and his courage is an inspiration for all of us. To all those who's lives he touched you are in our thoughts and prayers. God's speed Jim." Coach Morris, Staff, and the Monarchs Hockey Team
Carol Hasty
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen and Family
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Andrew Rillovick
March 19, 2013
I knew him from NHTI a few years back. Jim was always in a good mood, always approachable, always helpful, always supportive, he was just a world-class guy, and that's the impression I had of him right from the start. I was a bit of a loner in Strout Hall, and he was always super friendly to me for absolutely no reason, and he never stopped. WOW. I'm really bummed out after hearing this.
Beth Cantwell
March 19, 2013
Karen and family my thoughts and prayers go out to you all . Someone once said we are not here for a long time we are all here for a good time remember we will all meet again one day love to all . Jimmy was a very strong and brave young man . My love to all
Kim Cinfo-Shelton
March 19, 2013
Atherton Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I never had the honor of meeting James but, I did grow up with his Aunt Robin, and new his Grandparents very well. My heart goes out to all of you at this time.
Marlene Lein
March 19, 2013
So sorry for your loss. Jim was an amazing young man, and will definitely be missed.
He'll always be a member of Monarchs Country.
Michele Foley
March 19, 2013
Sending you prayers, love, peace and strength. Thinking of all of you during this difficult time.
March 19, 2013
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May you know the comfort of God and know that Jimmy is in good hands. My heart goes out to you in your time of need.
Love,
Karen Downs
March 19, 2013
Karen,Lee,and Plilip,
I loved Jimmy's Spirit so much and enjoyed being around him through the years. All those baseball games and hockey games. I would always look forward to working with him at the Greenhouse and being his "Boss Lady". My Spencer valued his friendship with him very much, as well as I did. A big goof, who's goal was to crack me up and help make me happy. My most vivid memory is Jimmy hanging off the fence with tons of gum in his mouth cheering his teamates or rattling the other team. His life was bursting with life and it flowed onto others and mine.
Jimmy , "you crack me up" . You will be missed in my world but not in my heart or in my treasured memories of you.
Love,
Andrea Minnon
Tammy Worcester
March 19, 2013
Karen and family, Knowing the memories of all your wonderful days with Jimmy will give you reasons to smile during these trying times because you are an amazing supportive family.
Peg Hapsis
March 19, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless!
Becky Goldstein
March 19, 2013
Karen and family my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Cherish the memories you share of Jimmy.
Cornerstone VNA
March 19, 2013
To the Atherton family - Cornerstone VNA sends our deepest sympathy on the loss of James. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family and friends.
jan walsh
March 19, 2013
dear karen and family; I am so so sorry to hear of jimmy's passing; I was shocked. Please know I'm sending you prayers of comfort and love and a big hug; may your memories of jimmy surround you all at this sad time. jan (grande)
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen and Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Jim was a terrific guy and seemed to always have a smile on his face, no matter how difficult his day.
He will be greatly missed by so many.
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
~Cristy Short, Barrington, NH
Mary Cantwell
March 19, 2013
Karen&family Im so heartbroken at the loss of Jimmy.He was so brave and had such courage.My prayers and love are with you.
Amy Rothery
March 19, 2013
Karen, Lee, and Phil,
There is absolutely nothing that I can say to tell you how devastated I am by the news of Jimmy's passing. He will forever be missed and admired for his strength, courage, and wonderful, warm heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate this very difficult time.
xoxox
~Amy Rothery
Best day of fishing anyone's ever had on Bowlake
Tom Erlenbach
March 19, 2013
I'm so thankful that you, Michael, Phil and I had the privilege of growing up together. Who cared about girls when we were all rollerblading around in our Mighty Ducks or Chicago Bulls Starter Jackets? Always pushing childhood to the limit - I'm trying to recall who took the most disciplining from our parents I want to say it was you or Phil because us Erlenbach's were just too perfect to get in trouble :-P But punishments together usually resulted in isolation because you made being in timeout too damn fun, a parent's nightmare. Always holding your ground with that stubbornness and refusal to back down constantly lead to more time "behind bars" for the rest of us. Who knew or would have thought that the young, innocent Jimmy with those thick glasses would have to use such a drive that would play a huge role in your fight against this terrible disease. Butting heads every single step of the way with cancer you fought hard and right because you never had a doubt that it couldn't be beat. Thank you so much for showing me not just how to take life one step at a time, but more importantly when it's best to just leap as far as you can. I'm going to miss you so much Jimmy - But I do have one more scratch ticket for you =) Rest well in the heavens bud. You earned it.
March 19, 2013
Dear Lee , Karen & Grammy Rae
What a terrible loss. My heart goes out to you. May he rest in peace.
Always Priscilla Schanda
March 19, 2013
Karen & Family
Please accept our condolences.
Walter and Joan Hart
Heidi Lundgren
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen and Family-
Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
With Sincere Sympathy,
Heidi Lundgren
Laurie Maranda
March 19, 2013
Jim will live forever in the memories of all of us.
Laurie Maranda
March 19, 2013
Lee, Karen & Phillip,
Such a strong battle Jimmy fought. This is not how the fight was supposed to end. So very sorry for your tremendous loss. Jimmy lit up the whole room no matter where he went. Our hearts are broken. Jimmy will be remembered and greatly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. The memories will always live on in our hearts and give us some small comfort. I love you all & will be keeping you in my thoughts & prayers.
Noreen Sullivan
March 19, 2013
Dear Karen, Lee & Phillip, I am so deeply sorry with hearing the news of Jimmy's passing. Whenever I saw an email from "Care Pages", I would open it with a prayer in my heart that this was the email that said he was cured. What an amazing son you raised. He is such an inspiration to all and has touched my heart in a forever way with following his journey through "Care Pages". Much love, prayer and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time. Love.....Noreen, Sara & Ryan Sullivan
Donna St Jean Timberlake
March 19, 2013
To Loose a child so young is such a devastation. My Thoughts and Prayers are with you at this very difficult time. I am sure my daughter Johanna who knew James was waiting to welcome him in open arms. God Bless You in your terrible loss. Donna St Jean Parent of Timberlake girls from Noble 2004 &2010 as well.
Nigam Rimal
March 19, 2013
You will remain in our hearts forever.
March 19, 2013
You will be forever in our hearts and memories
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How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Atherton's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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