Howard James Fraser

Dickinson Center – Howard James “Jim” Fraser, 70, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, June 14, 2015 at AMC in Saranac Lake with his family by his side. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in St. Regis Falls. Jim was born on June 15, 1944 in Massena, son of the late Harold and Mildred (Woodward) Fraser. He went to school at St. Regis Falls Central School. At one time, Jim was married to Linda Parks; and started a second union on July 15, 1972; as he married Sarah A. Wheeler at St. Ann’s Church in St. Regis Falls. Starting his working career at the age of 11, Jim was never one to be idle. He served in the Army National Guard from 1965, receiving his honorable discharge in 1971. Jim was a hard working man, holding many positions with various companies. He recently worked for the Willbros Company in Texas as Parts Manager on various pipeline projects. Prior to the pipeline, he worked at St. Regis Falls Central School as head bus driver and mechanic, retiring after 20 years. He was a 50 year fireman with St. Regis Falls and Dickinson Center Volunteer Fire Departments. Affectionately called by his friends, “Tinker”, Jim was always building or fixing something. He built his Trike which he very much enjoyed with his wife, enjoyed hunting, camping and spending winters in Florida. He formed many friendships that he never forgot, leaving a life woven with creativity, honesty and acts of kindness. He was the rock of his family: passing on his knowledge, giving his love generously, and showing the strength of his work ethic. Jim’s life was all about family, and he was blessed with a spirit that generated good will to everyone in his life. He is survived by his wife, Sarah, three children, Rhonda and Alex Carbino and Michael and Karrie Fraser. Both of St. Regis Falls, Amy Fraser and her companion, Charles Exware of Tupper Lake; his siblings, Harold “Jack” and Kathy Fraser, Hal “Jeff” and Gwendolyn Fraser, both of St. Regis Falls, Jeannie Montcliff of Ogdensburg, Haven “Pete” and Deborah Fraser, Hugh “John” and Amy Fraser and Jennifer and Rick Derouchie, all of St. Regis Falls, his grandchildren, Keeley Fraser, Kayla Montgomery, Michael Fraser, Tyler Fraser, Dylin LaRock and Tori Fraser, two great grandsons, Kyle and Dalton, many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Joanne Jolin who passed away in 2004. Following his wishes, there will be no calling hours. Jim’s Memorial Mass will be held Saturday at 11 am at St. Ann’s Church in St. Regis Falls with Fr. Fish. Entombment will be at a later date in Fairview Cemetery in Dickinson Center. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express an act of kindness in Jim’s honor, please consider donations to the Dickinson Center Volunteer Fire Department, Dickinson Center, NY 12930. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.hammillfh.com.