RUMFORD — James E. “Jim” Gallant, 75, of Highland Terrace, Mexico, died Tuesday, April 12, at the Rumford Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Mexico, Sept. 5, 1935, the son of Albany and Josephine (Doucette) Gallant, and graduated from Mexico High School.

Jim worked for the Boilermakers Local No. 29, and had previously worked in the belt shop for Oxford Paper Co. in Rumford.

Jim was a licensed pilot and enjoyed his planes, loved to fish and hunt, an avid Red Sox fan, vegetable gardening and enjoyed winters in Florida. He will be missed for his sly sense of humor and devilish smile.

He was married in Mexico on Dec. 31, 1992, to the former Clara Trenoweth, who survives of Mexico.

Other survivors include daughters, Suzan Howard and husband, Richard, of Winterport, Cynthia Benton of Auburn, Judi Gallant and companion, Danny Payne, of South Paris and Josie Poulin and husband, Brian, of Turner; son, James B. Gallant and wife, Kathy, of Canton; brothers, Gerald Gallant and Richard Gallant and wife, Jean, of Rumford, William Gallant and wife, Mary, of Peru and Ronald “Freddie” Gallant and wife, Colleen, of Florida; sister, Ann Sawchuck and husband, Bill, of Canada; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; stepsons, Richard Welch and Carl “Chuck” Welch and wife, Karen, of Mexico and Shane T. Welch of Rumford; stepdaughter, Shannon Welch of Rumford; nine stepgrandchildren; and one stepgreat-granddaughter.

The family extends a special thank-you to the staff of the Rumford Hospital for the excellent care that Jim received.

Friends are invited to sign the family guest book and share their thoughts, condolences and memories online at www.meaderandson.com.