Obituary of James M. Colby

James M. Colby, 69, of Cape Vincent, NY died at his home surrounded by his family on November 27, 2013. Jim was born in Utica, NY and moved to Camillus, NY as a young boy. He graduated from West Genesee High School in 1963. Jim was a Vietnam veteran serving in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1965. He worked at Chrysler Corp. for many years as a mechanic and was a Fairmount Fire Board Trustee and an active member for many years. Jim married his best friend and the love of his life Betty Ann on November 8, 1985. Betty Ann and Jim enjoyed many adventures together and brought such joy and laughter to all. Jim loved the 1000 Islands, boating, fishing, road trips and an occasional "happy hour". Betty Ann and Jim had a winter home in Cocoa, Florida where they shared special times and laughs with retired Chrysler friends, neighbors and family. Jim treasured this blended family of 8 children, 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Jim had rheumatoid arthritis and endured so much pain for years. He was cared for by his "head nurse" – Betty Ann for years and most recently by Hospice of Jefferson County caregivers. Jim was an example of courage, strength and determination. His family was his greatest inspiration and source of love and comfort. Jim is survived by his wife, Betty Ann Colby (Kittner). He is predeceased by his parents, Lucille (Montena) and Marshall Colby and his brother, Paul Colby. Jim is also survived by his children, James (Amber) Colby, Jr., Laura (Scott) Glover and 6 stepchildren, Michael (Karen) Moran, Catherine (Dan) Hanover, Bill (Jacquelyn) Moran, Tim (Tina) Moran, Tom Moran, Kelly Moran, and his grandchildren and several cousins. He will be missed by all who knew him, but especially his rescue dog, Buddy, who kept vigil by his side these past few months. Final blessings will be on Monday, December 2nd at 10:30AM at Edward J. Ryan and Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave., Syracuse. Calling hours are 3pm- 6pm on Sunday, December 1st at the funeral home. The family requested in lieu of flowers the consideration of donations in Jim's name to Special Olympics, 6315 Fly Rd., East Syracuse, NY 13057 or St. Jude Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.