WESTFIELD: James F O’Rourke, 85, (1930-2016) died peacefully on Sunday January 31, 2016 at home. Born February 16, 1930 in Westfield, he was the son of the late James and Katherine (Claire) O’Rourke. A lifelong resident of Westfield, Jim attended local schools and was a 1947 graduate of Westfield High School. He earned a full scholarship and graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, class of 1951. Jim entered into the U.S. Navy becoming a Lieutenant and serving during the Korean War on the USS Samuel B. Roberts. He was employed as a Quality Control Supervisor at Stevens Paper Mill in Westfield and Windsor, CT. He possessed a warm, dry Irish wit. Jim was a life communicant of St Mary’s Church in Westfield, a member of the American Legion Post 124, and a life member of the Sons of Erin. He was an avid reader and golfer, playing in various leagues throughout the area. He was predeceased by his wife Jeanne (Thibeault) O’Rourke in 2008. He is survived by 2 daughters, Charlene O’Rourke of Westfield and Judith Zimmerman and her husband William of Southwick; his sister Kathleen O’Rourke Hagan of Westfield; 2 grandchildren, Laurel Wynn and her husband Joseph, and Bryan Silkey; and by his cherished great granddaughter Claire Wynn. He also leaves his sister-in-law Jane Thibeault of Worcester and many beloved nieces and nephews. The funeral for Jim will take place Friday February 5, 2016 at 9:30 am from the Robert E Cusack Funeral Home, 94 Main St (Rt 20) with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in St Mary’s Church, Bartlett St. Burial will follow in St Mary’s Cemetery, all in Westfield. Calling hours are Thursday from 4:30-7 pm. Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the St Mary’s Advancement Fund, 30 Bartlett St, Westfield, MA 01085
