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James Dell Obituary
NORTH GREENBUSH - James H. Dell, age 71, passed away unexpectedly at his home, on January 28, 2026. Born in 1954, he was the son of the late Arthur and Charlotte Dell.
James was the partner, along with his now deceased brother, Art Dell Jr., in the family business known as Art Dell's Garage, which their father started in the 1950s. Jim was active in many operations of the garage, such as towing, scrapping junk vehicles, and collecting vehicles. Known for his strong work ethic and hands-on skill, he took pride in his trade and the relationships he built through his work. He also had a great sense of humor, and was known for his quick wit and easy laugh.
In his younger years, James enjoyed the thrill of competing in demolition derbies, a pastime that reflected his adventurous spirit and love of automobiles. He was also an avid collector with a particular fondness for Studebakers, a passion that brought him great enjoyment throughout his life.
James is survived by his sister, Kathryn (Albert Kolakowski) Dell-Kolakowski; and his niece, Morgan Zhang, who will dearly miss him.
In addition to his parents, Arthur J. Dell Sr. and Charlotte D. (Howard) Dell, James was predeceased by his brother, Arthur J. Dell Jr.; and by his sister, Sandra (Garry Nack) Dell-Nack.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Monday, February 2, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the W.J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 1700 Washington Ave., Rensselaer. A funeral home service will be held at 11 a.m., with burial to follow immediately at Blooming Grove Cemetery, in Defreestville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, N.Y. 12204. Online condolences may be offered at www.wjlyonsfuneralhome.com
Memories and Condolences
for James Dell
7 Entries
Brenda Iacocca
February 8, 2026
Our deepest condolences to the Dell Family. Sandy & Kitty were lovely friend when the Wheeler girls were growing up. Dell's garage was a iconic business. So sorry to hear of James passing.
Gary Farrell
February 2, 2026
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jimmy. This is so soon after Aunt Charlotte this past year and Artie the year before. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Al and Morgan.
Dan Skarshinski
February 2, 2026
Jim & his brother, and their father always had time for me as teenager trying to build his first car. They often helped me with technical assistance, hands on help and resources I didn´t have access to. Art Sr, actually let me fix my car in the back of his shop for a long period of time affording me access to the shop at my convenience. I spent many weekends with Jim and Art jr at swap meets and auctions buying both parts and antiques. Spending time with them at the shop was sure to involve heckling, teasing, and joking. Jim has now passed and with him the future of a business started by his father in the 40s. Many people will drive past the property now, seeing all the cars gone, and think about how much better the property is. To me it is a sad reminder of the friends I have lost and the great people that used to toil there. They were honest, hard working and humble. They would say what they did for me was not a big deal- it was. Goodbye Jim, and goodbye to Art Dell´s garage.
joe schaller
February 2, 2026
JIM was a good man , sad to see him go
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Mike McNulty
February 1, 2026
To all of Jim´s Family: I am very sorry for your loss.
Kathleen Schoyer
February 1, 2026
My sincere condolences to Jim's family. Jim and his wonderful family were well know and respected in our community. Jim will be missed.
Harry W.
January 31, 2026
Kathryn and Family,I want to offer my sincerest condolences. Jim was a great guy. Jim's automobile knowledge was beyond reproach. I remember, when I was A young man, I always knew who knew could solve any auto problem I had. Jim could find Humor in almost every situation, Jim was a friend to so many people. He will be missed.
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Memorial Events
for James Dell
Feb
2
Visitation
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
W.J. Lyons Jr Funeral Home, Inc
1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Feb
2
Funeral service
11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
W.J. Lyons Jr Funeral Home, Inc
1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Feb
2
Graveside service
12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Blooming Grove Cemetery
N Greenbush Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Funeral services provided by:
W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc.1700 Washington Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144
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