James R Rich

James Russell Rich of Killington, VT passed on from this life on Dec. 1, 2025 at age 86.

Jim was an avid skier, who started skiing at age five, walking uphill to “earn his turns”. There were no rope tows in those days! He and his wife Jan traveled extensively out West and in Europe to pursue their shared passion for skiing. He was also an accomplished sailor who owned three live-aboard sailboats (all named “Summer Slopes”) for 38 years. In retirement, they lived aboard in the summer months and cruised the East Coast, with the Maine coast especially dear to his heart. Originally from CT, he retired to Killington in 1992. He worked for Aetna for 29 years as a computer professional (in what was then known as Data Processing) since the early 60’s. He witnessed the progression from room sized, vacuum tube computers to Smartphones. He was an Army Veteran who served as a Lieutenant in Germany after graduating from Providence College. He was a lifelong Elk, having served as a Past Exalted Ruler in CT.

He was not your average “80 something” year old! He was strong and fit and enjoyed life to the fullest until the past few years when Parkinson’s Disease changed his life. His trademark red hair and beard (which later turned to white) made him recognizable to all (especially since he did not wear a hat, no matter HOW cold it was), therefore his ski buddies gave him the nickname “Jimmy No Hat”. He developed a wide circle of skiing and boating buddies over the years. He also enjoyed working on the Killington Race Crew.

He is survived by his loving wife Jan Rich. They built their dream home in Killington together. They had 45 wonderful years together “living the dream” of skiing and sailing! His last cruise was on Princess Cruise lines in 2024, along the Alaskan Coast. It was magical and Jim enjoyed it immensely.

He is predeceased by his parents Francis and Mary (Landrigan) Rich and his sister Arline Rich, all of West Hartford, CT. He is survived by his cousins Kathy (Landrigan) Green, Russell Landrigan, Roseanne Landrigan and Kevin Landrigan, and William Rich, Mary Rich, John Rich, Margaret (Valentine) Rich, and Anne Marie Rich.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, to be determined. Donations may be made in his memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Parkinson’s Foundation or any charity of your choice.

Clifford Funeral Home is handling arrangements. There are no calling hours and a private burial in CT will be held at a later date. www.cliffordfuneralhome.com for more info.