James Joseph Meyer, age 89, passed away on March 18, 2023, at his home in Walden, NY. Jim was born, May 24, 1933, in Callicoon, NY to William and Catherine Meyer. Jim had two older brothers to look up to and often fondly recounted how he looked after his little sister and even learned to braid her hair. After graduating high school, he served in the United States Air Force for 4 years and upon his return home, he married his high school sweetheart, Rose Marie Bertsch on July 11, 1959, in Callicoon, NY. Jim and Rose were married for 63 years. As newlyweds, the couple moved to Walden, NY and Jim became a Chief Lineman for NYSEG.  Beyond his work maintaining and restoring power to his neighbors, Jim was also a member of the Coldenham Fire Department and served as Chief and Commissioner for the district. He enjoyed his time with the Boy Scouts as Troop 125’s leader,  attending many freezorees (his favorite!) which he started when his son, Mike, joined but he continued long after Mike graduated. Jim was a season ticket holder to West Point football games for almost 40 years and loved watching Army (rarely) win!

Jim was always known as a jokester and as someone who could start up a conversation with anyone. Many families in the area have fond memories of going to Jim and Rose Marie’s house to pick out their Christmas tree which Jim grew in his backyard. He was also known for his talent in woodworking and ability to fix just about anything. His family’s homes are filled with his beautiful creations and many friends, family and neighbors knew they could call on Jim to lend a helping hand when they were in a pinch. He enjoyed the outdoors and spent time gardening, hiking, taking Canadian fishing trips, and birdwatching. His neighbors could often find him looking out the front window admiring the view, ready to wave. Jim and his family enjoyed traveling and told many stories – usually with a lot of laughs – about their trips to Europe, Hawaii, Bermuda, Puerto Rico and throughout the United States. 

Jim is predeceased by his son, Paul, his parents, William and Catherine, in-laws, Charles and Gertrude, siblings William (Sylvia), Albert (Karin), and brother-in-law, Charles. He is survived by his wife, Rose Marie, 3 children, Barbara, Patricia (Elliot), Michael (Stephanie); 7 grandchildren Shawn (Victoria), Patrick (Heather), Megan (Andrew), Rory, Kelly (Nico), Mickenna, Cian and Lyla; 5 great-grandchildren Ryann, Eleanor, John, Hailey and Baby #5 on the way. Jim is also survived by his sister Kathleen, brother-in-law, Earl (Joy) and numerous nephews and nieces. 

The family would like to thank Hospice of Orange and Sullivan and especially his nurses Cheryl, Kristen and Hyacinth.

Services will be held under the direction of Millspaugh Funeral Home. 

Calling hours will be on Sunday, March 26, 2023, from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Millspaugh Funeral Home located at 22 Bank Street, Walden, NY 12586. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery located at 137 Clinton Street, Montgomery, NY 12549, with a burial immediately to follow at East Cochecton Cemetery in Sullivan County.

Contributions in Jim’s honor can be made to the Hudson Valley Honor Flight. Please note Jim’s name on your contribution, Hudson Valley Honor Flight, PO Box 375, Walden, NY 12586.