James Francis "Jim" Dannaher

James Francis Dannaher, a retired Burlington firefighter and longtime employee of Atrius Health, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 9, 2026. He was 92 years old.

Jim was born in Cambridge and was one of five children born to Irish immigrants, John and Katherine Dannaher. His upbringing was filled with strong Irish traditions and values. He grew up in Somerville and was a graduate of Somerville High School.

In 1956, he married his wife, Barbara Reed, a lifelong resident of Burlington, and in 1958 they moved into Barbara's family homestead. That home would go on to shelter five generations of the Dannaher/Reed family.

Jim learned from his father the importance of a strong work ethic and providing for one's family. At the age of 19, during the Korean War, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served for two years as a member of Company "D," 7th Cavalry Regiment, spending a year and a half overseas stationed in Hokkaido, Japan as a member of the ski patrol. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal.

After returning home, Jim went to work at the Houghton, Mifflin, & Company, working on the printing press. He later changed careers and became a member of the Burlington Fire Department. His career there lasted 22 years, and he retired with the rank of Lieutenant. Being a firefighter suited Jim perfectly. He was kind-hearted, protective of others, and always knew what needed to be done. During his firefighting career, he also worked part-time at Concord Catering for decades.

After retiring from the fire department, Jim simply could not sit idle and let time pass him by. He accepted a position in the facilities department at Harvard Vanguard, now Atrius Health, where he worked for the last 32 years. What began as a way to keep busy evolved into a second family for Jim, especially after his beloved Barbara passed away in 2005. Going to work gave him renewed purpose and an incredible social network. While many people look forward to retirement, Jim truly loved his work, his coworkers, and having a purpose each day - getting out of bed, being productive, and brightening others' days.

Jim loved to travel. It took him decades to convince Barbara to get on a plane, but once they did, they embraced seeing the world together. They enjoyed a Rhine River cruise, traveled to Bermuda and Ireland, and brought their children and grandchildren to Europe, visiting Brussels, Belgium, and Paris. That trip took place several years before Barbara became ill and remains a deeply cherished memory for the entire family. Jim also enjoyed cruises and trips to Disney World with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When he wasn't working or traveling, Jim was always just a phone call away if a family member needed handyman work done around their home.

Jim lived a long and healthy life. He lived independently, drove, and worked full-time until the day he became ill. He took pride in his accomplishments. He will be remembered as a man who never shied away from hard work, who loved to talk and socialize, tell stories, and above all, be a strong provider for his family. His sudden passing was a surprise to all who knew him. He was the person everyone believed would reach one hundred years old. While his loss is deeply felt, it is perhaps fitting that he passed quickly - as he never wanted to be a burden to anyone.

Jim will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered.

Jim was the beloved husband of the late Barbara (Reed) Dannaher. They shared 49 years together before her passing. He was the proud father of Deborah Garside and Karen Fagner of Burlington and father-in-law of Jon Fagner of Burlington. He was the brother of Thomas Dannaher of Florida, the late Theresa Rodibaugh, John and Joseph Dannaher. He was the grandfather of Michael Fagner, Katie McDonald & her husband Anthony, Jeremy Garside, Jean Wiebold & her husband Bryan, and Kelly Garside all of Burlington. He was the great grandfather of Derrick, Duran, & Drew McDonald, and Blake, Samantha, & Ruby Wiebold. He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

At his request, all funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Last Call Foundation at www.lastcallfoundation.org or the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation at www.bostonfirecancerfoundation.org. Arrangements are by Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, Burlington, www.sullivanfuneralhome.net