James Lafayette “Jim” Betsch

AUBURN – James Lafayette “Jim” Betsch, 90, passed away on July 18, 2024, in Auburn. Born on Sept. 23, 1933, in Huntsville, Ala., Jim was a cherished member of his community and a beloved figure among family and friends.

Jim’s early years were spent in Huntsville, where he attended Huntsville High School before joining the Navy from 1951 to 1953. After his military service, he embarked on a successful career as a business owner of Morin The Painter and Morin’s Antiques.

Beyond his professional life, Jim was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. He was also known for his baking skills and his active involvement in the Exchange Club and United Commercial Travelers, contributing significantly to community service and networking.

Jim loved his family and friends and gave them the gift of time. He always had time for his children. It could be a quick game in the backyard with all the neighborhood kids, or a tromp through woods on a hot sticky afternoon. He loved it when the house was full of family and friends and laughter. Friday night cocktails and cribbage were a regular event. He believed that anything was possible if you worked hard at it and that family and friends were gifts that you nurture and treasure. His brother Bob said, “The thing I remember most about Jim’s character is his love for sharing with others, especially with those he loved; he was always baking or cooking something he could share with others — It was the joy of his life.”

Jim is survived by his twin brother, Robert Betsch of Huntsville, Ala.; daughters Linda Sturdivant of Standish, Carol Betsch of New Gloucester, Catherine Betsch-Raynor of Auburn, Diane Betsch-Landry of Green; son James Betsch of Auburn; grandchildren Sara Sanborn, Cassandra Sturdivant, Lukas Elijah Ephraim Larkins, William Quay Larkins, Brandon Larkins, Thomas Raynor, Kelley Raynor, Chelsea Landry, Samuel Landry, Elizabeth Cyr, and Matthew Betsch; and 12 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his longtime companion, Doris Boisvert. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Jeannine Morin Betsch.

There will be a celebration of life for Jim on August 31, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the home of his daughter Catherine Betsch Raynor at 57 Dana Ave. in Auburn, Maine.

Arrangements are under the care of Pinette Dillingham & Lynch Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located at 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway, Lewiston, ME, 04240.

In lieu of flowers,

contributions may

be made to:

Andwell Health partners https://andwell.org/giving/donate/