James Kesler McCormick (Jim)

James Kesler McCormick (Jim), 86, formerly of Nashua, New Hampshire, passed away October 29, 2023 in Aiken, South Carolina. He was born and raised in Watertown, NY.

Jim trained as an engineer, attending the Hun School at Princeton as a young man, followed by Brown University and later earning an Electrical Engineering degree in 1966 from Cooper Union College. He became a developmental representative for Hamamatsu Photonics of Japan, working with the leading physics laboratories in the US, often designing specialized products for them.

Active in the Unitarian Universalist Church, Jim also contributed to the community and global projects of Rotary International. He was described as a fierce competitor on the squash court as well as a patient teacher — and unforgiving opponent — in playing the ancient game of “Go.”

Jim founded and was chair of the Nashua chapter of The Boys & Girls Club of America. He was a guide for the Appalachian Mountain Club, most of whose New England trails he hiked, in addition to climbing all 48 of New Hampshire’s plus-4,000-foot mountains. Jim especially loved Lake Winnipesaukee where he and his wife Ellen loved to spend their time. Hiking, sailing, motor-boating and rowing his single scull were among the activities he enjoyed there, but spending time with his beloved family was paramount.

Jim is survived by his daughter Sara (Jon Hickey) McCormick, as well as his grandson Bryceton – all of Aiken; also surviving is his brother, Dr. David P. McCormick (Beverly Y. McCormick) of Galveston, TX. Jim was pre-deceased by his wife, Ellen Reilly McCormick, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. McCormick of Watertown. Robert spent his latter years in Wellesley, MA.

Jim will forever be remembered by his surviving nieces and nephews and their families, along with many others whose lives he touched.

Arrangements are with Rivers Funeral Home in Aiken. In accordance with his wishes, Jim’s remains will be cremated with interment expected to be in Nashua, N.H., where a memorial service is contemplated for a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jim’s name to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua or the Appalachian Mountain Club.