Jim

James E. Bower, 90

of Nichols

James E. Bower, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2024, his 90th birthday, in Middletown, NY. Born in 1934 in Rote, PA, Jim was a man of exceptional intelligence and faith, whose life was marked by dedication to his family, his church, and his community.

Jim's journey began as a proud graduate of Lock Haven High School, after which he pursued further education at Lock Haven State University. There, he obtained an Associate's Degree in Chemical Engineering & Math Studies, setting the foundation for a fruitful career. He spent many years working for IBM in Owego and Endicott, NY, and also in Austin, Texas, where he applied his skills as a diligent and innovative engineer.

On January 29, 1954, in Cedar Springs, PA, Jim married the love of his life, Wanda. Their union was blessed with nearly 70 years of shared dreams, laughter, and unwavering support. Together, they raised a loving family, including daughters Cathy Bower, Julie (Dan) Berry, and Terri (Michael) Kassapian. His legacy continued to grow with his cherished grandchildren, Matthew (Shannon) Poll, Morgan Berry, Brian (Allison) Berry, and Brandon (Rebecca) Kassapian, and his adored great-grandchildren, Noah, Haven, Bailey Poll; Eli Dunlap, Corinne, and Elise Berry; Evelyn, Alexander, and Lucas Kassapian.

Jim was a brother to Valeria Wither and Janice Bower, and a brother-in-law to Marsha Staley. He was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Mabel Bower, his children, Dale Anna Poll and David Bower, and his siblings, Delores Mann, Joyce Marshall, Delilia Thal, and Harriet Barzdo.

A man of devout faith, Jim was a dedicated member of the Lounsberry United Methodist Church, serving as a Lay Leader and inspiring many with his steadfast commitment. His Masonic brethren at the Nichols Westbrook Masonic Lodge #333 F & AM knew him as a man of principle, where he held many positions and was honored as a 32nd Degree of the Scottish Rite.

Jim's love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. His garden and yard were a testament to his hard work and connection to nature. He held the belief that through patience and care, both land and relationships flourish. His tireless spirit meant he rarely knew when to quit or say no, especially when it came to helping others.

Friends and family will remember Jim as loving, faith-filled, and intelligent. His warmth and wisdom were as constant as the stars. Albert Einstein once said, "Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile," a quote that epitomizes Jim's approach to his journey through this world.

Abiding with Jim’s wishes there will be no services. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, (www.stjude.org) 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; The Nichols Presbyterian Church Med Shed (Be sure to write Med Shed in the donation line), 140 S. Main St., Nichols, NY 13812 or Stray Haven, 194 Shepard Rd., Waverly, NY 14892 in loving memory of James E. Bower.

Jim’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of love, service, and intellectual curiosity. His life story is not one of finality but of continuity, through the lives he touched, the community he helped build, and the family he so deeply loved. His legacy is one of enduring love and unwavering faith, a beacon for all who seek to live a life of purpose and devotion.