Obituary: James H. Chase

James H. Chase, age 81, of the City of Tonawanda, passed away on Aug. 13, 2023.

He was born on May 5, 1942, in the City of Tonawanda. Most everyone knew him as Jim (Jimmy), but his best names were Dad, Grandpa, and Big-Pa to his two great-grandsons.

Jim had a big personality and was known for his love of family and his ability to make people laugh. He knew everybody, and everybody knew him. Jim had a special knack for connecting with people either with a joke or a tease. You knew never to take him seriously.

He was a long-standing member of the Delaware Hose Co. No. 2 in Tonawanda. He looked forward every year to bringing out his uniform to walk or ride in the Fireman's Day Parade.

Jim was a foster parent with his wife, Anne, for over 40 years. Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Anne (nee Crawford); his sister, Wanda Chase; his children: Patty (Jeff), Peter (Lorene), Michael (Richard), Jonathan (Amy), Jillian (Lee), Robby and Tanya; foster children Jennifer, Vivian, Tami, Brian and Samantha; eight grandchildren: Christy (Jonathan), Samantha (Mark), Sarah, Randy (Becca), Luke (Sierra), Chase, Logan (Baylee) and Christopher; and two great-grandchildren: Trevor and Zander.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial celebration of Jim's life will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at Adams Firehall, 7113 Nash Road, North Tonawanda. Please join the family for a causal lunch – and raise a glass of beer to honor and remember James H. Chase, a remarkable man who brought joy and laughter to all who crossed his path.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Adams Volunteer Fire Co., Bergholz Volunteer Fire Department or to Tri-Community Ambulance Services. Donations can be sent to Adams Fire Co., 7113 Nash Road, North Tonawanda, NY 14120. They will be divided amongst the three Volunteer companies that assisted over the past few years.