James Charles Cumming

James Charles Cumming
1926 - 2016
WEST GARDINER - James Charles Cumming, 90, of West Gardiner, died peacefully on May 12, 2016, at Gray Birch Long-term Care Facility in Augusta, with his loving family at his side. Born on March 6, 1926, in Detroit, Mich., he served with the U.S. Navy in World War II and Korea, later graduating from Lawrence Institute of Technology. Upon entering into the service, he tested with the highest score on the Navy's entrance exams to that point.
Jim married Sally Gartman in 1959 and they had identical twin daughters, Barbara and Nancy. (Jim had to rush home and build a second crib!)
A lifelong automotive engineer for Rockwell International, he enjoyed solving difficult mechanical puzzles. After retirement in 1982, he spent many years volunteering for Owls Head Transportation Museum. He had a passion for steam engines and built many models from scratch in the metal shop in his basement. Jim was an active participant in several live steam engine clubs in Michigan and Maine. He enjoyed traveling the world with his family as well as camping, hunting and fishing. In 1956 he qualified for the Olympics in marksmanship but was unable to participate due to lack of finances. Jim was a wonderful story teller and his sense of humor will be missed.
He was predeceased by his parents Douglas and Isabella Cumming, and by his sister Mary Sutherland.
He is survived by his wife Sally Cumming of West Gardiner, his daughter Nan Cumming and son-in-law Drew Masterman of Portland, daughter Barbara Cumming of Augusta, and his grandchildren Emma and Doug.
Private services will be held.