WINCHENDON/ROYALSTON — In the wake of James “Jim” Bevilacqua’s sudden passing at 64, his family, honoring his legacy of generosity, has chosen to donate his organs. Jim, a devoted firefighter and divemaster with the Winchendon Fire Department, passed away on New Year’s Eve at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston after he was stricken ill.
Born in Clinton and raised in Lancaster, Jim graduated from Nashoba Regional High School in 1977. He was a long-time resident of Winchendon, before recently residing in Royalston, according to his obituary.
Jim worked in the construction industry for 46 years.
“Jim had a passion for building things, from making furniture and toys for his children and grandchildren, to residential and commercial buildings,” his obituary said.
He was a member of the Winchendon Fire Department for 15 years and for 20 years, he was on the Winchendon Dive Rescue Team, during which time he became a divemaster.
“Jim’s love of fire service, and underwater skills made him a natural fit to become a trainer for many area firefighters, teaching them ice and water rescue,” his obituary said. “In addition, he was a member of Fire & Iron Motorcycle Club, Station 857, since 2012, and volunteered his time in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.”
Funeral services for Jim will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2023, at 12:30 p.m. in the McNally & Watson Funeral Home located at 304 Church Street in Clinton. The burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Lancaster. Calling hours will be held in the funeral home on Saturday morning, from 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
The family asks that anyone who wishes to make donations send them to the Winchendon Fire Department located at 405 Central St., Winchendon, MA 01475.
Jim’s family and friends will gather to honor and remember his life on Saturday, January 13, 2023, with a funeral service at 12:30 p.m. in the McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St., Clinton. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Lancaster. Calling hours will be held in the funeral home on Saturday morning, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., prior to the service. For those who wish, the Bevilacqua family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Winchendon Fire Department, 405 Central St., Winchendon, MA 01475.
