ILLINOIS – James Conti, 65, died unexpectedly on May 5.

Jim was born on July 10, 1942, in Rumford, the son of Irene and James Conti. He grew up in Rumford and graduated from Stephens High School, Class of 1960.

Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Germany. After serving four years in the military, he moved to Hartford, Conn., where he was employed by Montgomery Elevator. When the company was purchased by KONE Elevator, he relocated to Moline, Ill.,where he was still employed as an electrical designer at the time of his death.

He was a kind and gentle man who loved his family dearly and cherished his many friendships. He will be sadly missed by all. When not working, he loved to play golf and attend family gatherings at his sister’s home on Long Lake in Bridgton.

He is survived by two daughters, Kathy Miller and grandson, Hayden, of Aurora, Colo., and Kerry Conti of Houston, Texas; his mother, Irene Newell of Mexico; brothers, Bob Foreman from Sangerville and Larry Newell of North Conway, N.H.; sister, Debra Hamel and her husband, Dennis, from Bridgton; sister-in-law, Donna Foreman of Rumford; four nieces; and two nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, James Conti; his stepfather, Charles Newell; brothers, Michael Foreman and Charles Newell III.