James W. LaTraverse

James W. LaTraverse II, 54, died Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Elliot Hospital following a long illness.

Born in Beverly, MA, on August 23, 1966, he was the son of the late Carol (Hinckley) LaTraverse and the late James W. LaTraverse. After childhood, he was a lifetime resident of Manchester and surrounding towns Goffstown, Hooksett, and Allenstown.

Jim attended Goffstown High School and later obtained the GED through home study. Jim received welding certification at age 22, worked in various home construction trades, automotive and commercial fiberglass fabrication, and as an ironworker. In recent years, he was a fabricator/welder for Admix, Inc. of Londonderry. Family and friends knew Jim (Imij to some) as an intelligent, sometimes boisterous, and often humorous man of character with a quick wit and a broad smile. Despite his crusty exterior, Jim genuinely cared for those whose lives he touched.

Jim was a daring motocross biker in his youth, and a lifelong Harley-Davidson motorcycle enthusiast. He enjoyed the outdoors--NH seacoast beaches, lakes, and especially local woods, where he felt closest to his Creator. Jim loved music, playing electric guitar, and "making his ears bleed." Jim was a creative grill master of fine meats, renowned for BBQ ribs and vegetables grown in his own garden. He was a member of Deerhead Sportsmen's Club and MPC/The Getaway. Jim also loved hanging out with friends on the Merrimack River in Hooksett, who he considered his brothers and sisters.

Family members include his beloved companion Denise LaPointe of Manchester, brother Frederick W. LaTraverse III of Weare, and three half-siblings, including Joel LaTraverse of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. He is survived by one uncle, Gregory W. LaTraverse of Gloucester, MA, three aunts, Joanne M. LaTraverse of Beverly, MA, Lisa Dianne Bramblett of Sulphur Springs, TX, Nancy E. Hinckley of Essex, MA, and stepfather Daniel C. Irish of Olathe, KS. Jim was the first of many cousins, including Rob Bramblett of Everett, WA, Brian Bramblett of Sulphur Springs, TX, Justin Bramblett of Frisco, TX, and Nathalie C. Lindgren of Weston, VT. Jim's cousins hold fond memories of his introductions to life's challenges and victories. He was predeceased by two uncles, Frederick W. LaTraverse II, Robert Hinckley, and one aunt, Judith S. Wickers.

A celebration of Jim's life will be planned in the summer.

French & Rising Funeral Home of Goffstown handled the arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Red Cross, 2 Maitland Street, Concord, NH 03301. For more information or to sign an online guestbook please visit www.frenchandrising.com