RUMFORD — James J. Buccina, 83, of Knox Street died unexpectedly Thursday, Dec. 2, at his home.

He was born in Mexico, May 8, 1927, a son of Bruno and Rose (Samarco) Buccina and one of eight children.

Jim was educated in Mexico schools and was a graduate of Mexico High School, Class of 1945. While in high school, he played basketball and football, earning a varsity letter in both. He also began his lifelong diligent work ethic by setting pins at the local bowling alley and working in the mill.

Jim married his high school sweetheart Hazel Prevost on Oct. 24, 1948; together they celebrated 62 years of marriage and raised two daughters.

He was employed for 35 years with Oxford Paper Co., later known as Boise Cascade, and retiring as an assistant foreman.

Jim additionally owned and maintained multiple residential and commercial properties in Rumford and Mexico. He later purchased a second home in Falmouth, where he and his wife were fully engaged in the lives of their children and four grandchildren.

Jim was a communicant of St. Athanasius and St. John Catholic Church.

He was a member of the VFW, the American Legion, the Elks, and a former member of the Oakdale Country Club, where he enjoyed golf in his younger years. He also served his community as a County Commissioner.

Jim enjoyed music, dancing, singing, and playing the harmonica, guitar and organ. He also had a love of cars, especially convertibles.

His greatest love in life was his family and he was extremely close to his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Gramps.”

Jim was very proud of his Italian heritage, and enjoyed family gatherings where family history and stories were shared.

He began each family dinner with a customary toast of “A La Familia.”

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Hazel (Prevost) Buccina of Rumford; two daughters, Deborah Buccina of Falmouth and Jamie Marr and husband, Timothy C., of Portland; four sisters, Jennie Curato of Rumford, Rose McInnis of Rumford, Nancy Martin of Rumford and Annie Tripp and husband, Percy, of Westbrook; a brother, Joseph Buccina and his wife, Ollie, of Rumford; four grandchildren, Molly Marr, Edward James Rogers, Benjamin Rogers and Charlie Marr; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and two sisters, Elizabeth Melanson and Mary Sullivan.

You are invited to share your, thoughts, condolences, and fond memories with the Buccina family by visiting their guestbook at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.