James W. Massar Sr., 99, of Johnson City, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of God, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. He follows his beloved wife of 67 years, Genevieve, his parents John and Minnie Massar, twin brother William J. Massar, brother Johny Massar Jr. and sisters Helena Massar and Josephine Ambra. Dad is survived by his loving family; daughter Barbara Lott, son James Jr. (Maryann); Grandchildren Jennifer (Zai) Young, St Augustine, FL, James III (Annie) Massar, Christopher Massar, Great Grandsons; Maxwell and Xavier Young, Levi James and Samuel Vincent Massar. Dad was a proud grandfather and great grandfather. He made a point to attend as many sports' games, artistic performances, weddings and family gatherings as possible.
Jim was born on September 20, 1922 in Binghamton, New York and raised in the First Ward on Field St. He graduated from Binghamton Central High School and went to work at Bell Aircraft in Buffalo, NY as an Aero Draftsman until enlisting in the Army Air Corp during WW2. In the military, Jim proudly served in the Pacific Theater. As an Airplane Power Plant Mechanic, he reached the rank of Staff Sergeant in the 73rd wing, 499th Bomb Group, 878th Bomb Squadron. Jim led his group and was very proud of working on the B17 and B29 bombers. After the war, he returned to Binghamton to work at Ansco, Valley Engineering and IBM. He was a member of the IBM Quarter Century Club and retired after 27 years. In retirement, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling with mom, attending church, going for walks and playing golf. He was a member of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church and The Church of the Holy Trinity.
Dad was the caretaker of the family, always willing to assist with a home project and offer advice. During mom's illness, Dad was her personal caregiver at home, caring for her for 17 years.
The family gives special thanks to all the administrative, medical and personal care staff at James G. Johnson Nursing Home for their kindness and compassion over the years during a difficult time.
A Funeral Mass will be offered by Monsignor John P. Putano on Tuesday at 10am at the Church of the Holy Trinity, 346 Prospect St., Binghamton where family will receive friends from Tuesday 9am until the time of the Funeral Mass.. Burial, with military honors, will be in Slovak Catholic Cemetery on Riverside Drive, Binghamton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Church of the Holy Trinity “Window Repair Fund”, 346 Prospect St, Binghamton, NY 13905.
Kindly share your reflections of Jim on his guestbook at CHOPYAK-SCHEIDER.COM.