James Howard Manson

CANAAN – It is with heavy but full hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved and respected husband, father and grandfather, James “Jim” Manson, 79, of Canaan, affectionately known as “Papa” to some, and “Grampa” to others. He was one of the last of a dying breed; a true rock and a true man.

He passed away on Jan. 17, 2025, with his family by his side. Jim was predeceased by son Timothy Manson and daughter Dawn Manson; brothers Robert and Ronald, sister Jean Goodridge. He is survived by the absolute love of his life, Betty; his children Deb LaVoie of Winslow (and husband Ken), Cherie West of Skowhegan (and husband Rick), April Nichols of Hartland (and husband Roland), David Rumery of Eliot (and wife Julie), Michael Rumery of Waterville, and Cheryl Weymouth of Florida (and husband Mark). Additionally, he leaves behind nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; his little buddy “Tuffy” the Shih Tzu; two brothers, Doug Manson and wife Carmen of Florida and Gary Manson of Skowhegan; as well as a life-long friend, Calvin Grant.

Jim was born in Pittsfield, Maine on April 29, 1945, and has lived in Canaan and Fairfield Maine as well as Connecticut and Florida. He graduated in 1963 from Clinton High School, was a Mason most of his adult life, and made his living as a short- & long-haul truck driver.

At Christmas time, Jim loved creating lifelong memories for his grandchildren in his role as the most impeccable Santa one could imagine. His summers were spent surrounded by family, camping, fishing, boating, tending the smoker or grill…and creating memorable batches of homemade ice cream. Rumor has it that he never turned down an opportunity to dine on lobster and steamers. (And we can confirm this rumor first hand!) He was braver than any of his grandchildren and most of his adult children when it came to amusement park rides. The scarier the better.

When he wasn’t outdoors, surrounded by family, or navigating a tractor trailer, he loved card games and spent many an afternoon whipping someone’s behind at Cribbage. When he wasn’t playing a game, he was watching one; rooting for one of his favorite football teams, The NE Patriots, and later, The Tamp Bay Buccaneers.

He had a sharp wit, and if he liked you, there was a good reason and you could take some comfort in that.

Upon retiring, he and Betty moved to Florida for a few years to enjoy year-round warmth. But as the great-grandchildren started coming, Jim and Betty were drawn back home to Maine to create new chapters in their lives and the lives of their growing family.

A private service for immediate family only will be held in the spring.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Canaan Fire Department and Redington-Fairview EMS. They would also like to acknowledge and thank the Redington-Fairview R.N. on duty, Ryan Donovan, who compassionately comforted and guided the family through this difficult loss.