Vincent "Jim" DeMorris

On December 21, 2024, surrounded by his family, Vincent "Jim" DeMorris peacefully left us at the age of 92 to join his beloved wife in heaven.
He was born in the North End of Boston, Massachusetts, on December 12, 1932, to Charlotte and Vincent DeMorris, Sr. He was raised in Pinehurst, Massachusetts. He moved to Burlington, Massachusetts, for a short time, and he spent most of his life in Billerica, Massachusetts. He graduated from The Howe High School in Billerica, Massachusetts.
Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army 180th Infantry Unit during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955 as an infantryman. From there, he was stationed in Japan after a shrapnel injury.
In 1959, he worked for Avco Corporation Space System Division as a certified gunner and retrofitter. In 1964, he was assigned to the Apollo Project, making the ablative heat shield for NASA's Manned Spacecraft Center. He was chosen to attend a briefing session in Downey, California, as a reward for outstanding workmanship and skill. He was congratulated by astronaut Walter Cunningham, who shook his hand and awarded him. He was a master craftsman and general contractor, having owned his own construction company until his retirement. He was a perfectionist in everything he did.
For 37 years, the Hawaiian Islands served as a beloved second home for Jim and his wife. They cherished their winter escapes, spending time with many friends and listening to the Hawaiian music of his dear friend, Jerry Santos, from the band Olomana, when they played at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. The islands held a special place in their hearts, embodying the spirit of aloha. Jim loved to go to the beach after stopping for his daily malasada, seeing the sunsets, and spending time with his closest friends-whether hanging by the pool or lanai or just going out for dinner.
Jim and his wife traveled extensively throughout their lives, creating countless memories together. While they cherished their time on Oahu, they also enjoyed exploring the other Hawaiian Islands, particularly looking forward to visiting Maui and staying at the Pioneer Inn. Their adventures extended beyond Hawaii, with cruises aboard the Windstar taking them to Turkey, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and France. They also enjoyed summer vacations closer to home, visiting Ogunquit and Kennebunk in Maine.
Jim was a generous, caring, and supportive individual to anyone he came across. He served as the unwavering backbone of his family. He instilled in us the values of hard work, perseverance, and unconditional love. As a foster parent to several children, he demonstrated his compassionate nature and dedication to others.
His love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life. He meticulously cared for their home, cultivating a beautiful yard and vegetable garden, and creating a unique and loving home for his wife and family.
He guided his family with unwavering strength and wisdom, much like a sturdy koa tree weathering any storm while providing shelter and support to those he loved.
To his stepchildren, he was more than a stepfather; he was a role model, a guide, and a source of unending love. The "dad he didn't have to be" became the dad we were so lucky to have. He showed us what true devotion looks like, especially through his remarkable love story with our mother, his "cupie doll." Together, they shared a life filled with love, happiness, adventure, and an unwavering partnership-a match truly made in heaven.
We will forever carry the lessons he taught us, particularly the importance of perseverance and the enduring value of family. His spirit lives on in the sunsets over Waikiki, the gentle rustle of the trade winds, and in every wave that greets the shore.
Jim, you were our greatest strength, our kupuna (elder), and our hero. We are so proud and blessed to have had you in our lives. Mahalo for your love, your wisdom, and the countless memories you gifted us.
"We will forever miss you dearly."
Jim is survived by his children: Jackie Ampolos and her husband, John; James "Drew" DeMorris; Michael Yenouskas; Steven Yenouskas; Janice Callahan; Karen Kahale and her husband, Ronald Shikadi; and Marianne Fichera and her husband, George Fichera. His grandchildren: Nicole Kurz, Malia Rosado, Brandi Ribeiro, Kawika Shidaki, Ashley Fichera, Alisha Shidaki, Madison Fichera, and Jamie McPherson. His great-grandchildren: Hailie, Kendra, Jaeden, Bryce, Ryder, Davina, and Cameron.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara DeMorris; his daughter, Sharon DeMorris; and his grandchildren, Keoni Kahale and Ev Callahan.
He had many Island ohana, including his dearest friends Gayle Torres, Jim Farris, and Jerry Santos.
As we say in Hawaiian, a hui hou-until we meet again. Rest peacefully, knowing you were deeply loved and will always be remembered.
Me Ke Aloha
A Celebration of Life will be held privately at a later date to honor his life.
In accordance with his wishes, his ashes, alongside those of his beloved wife, will be scattered at his favorite place in Hawaii: Black Point Beach.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Donate by phone: (800) 805-5856. Mail: 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Website: https://www.stjude.org
---