James W. Cameron

James W. Cameron, affectionately known as "Jim," passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Needham, Massachusetts, surrounded by his beloved life partner Karin and family. Born in Boston on December 3, 1956, Jim was the cherished son of Clarence "Buddy" and Ann (Miller) Cameron. Raised in West Roxbury, he spent his summers exploring the beaches of Marshfield and Maine, forming lifelong memories that shaped his adventurous spirit. His lively personality and quick wit marked Jim's early years. His mother often joked, "You survived the nuns all those years, but more importantly, the nuns survived you," reflecting his mischievous yet endearing nature. 

After graduating from Hyde Park High School in 1974, Jim pursued a Kennel Management degree at Holliston Junior College before starting a varied career. From his meticulous work as a draftsman at Mason Machine Shop to his decades-long service as a splice service technician at New England Telephone (later Verizon), Jim's steady hands, outstanding work ethic, and dedication left an indelible mark. Jim loved his job, and the customers loved him. He was a proud member of IBEW Union Local 2222 until his retirement in 2012. The family was at the heart of Jim's life. As the middle child of five siblings, he shared deep bonds with his brothers Larry and Rob and sisters Maryann and Margaret. He was delighted to remember childhood antics and cherished moments spent swimming in the backyard with his son James after work. Jim was always happy to talk about sports and who would win with Rob. Becoming a grandfather to Lily brought immense joy to Jim. Years later, James met Erin, and they were married. Jim delighted in this, too.

For 35 years, Jim shared an inseparable bond with Karin E. Johnsen in Walpole, where their home became a hub of warmth and laughter. Together, they hosted poolside gatherings and cruised in Jim's prized 1967 Sting-Ray Corvette, a prized possession he showcased at car shows. Jim had a vast collection of model cars that were proudly displayed. He cheered for the Bruins from glass-side seats—a first date that Karin will never forget. Jim was an avid sports fan who never missed a Patriots or Red Sox game, cheered for the Bruins, and loved the Boston Red Sox. He enjoyed boxing matches and video games with his son. He also loved music and had attended many Boston concerts throughout his life. He was proud that he took his younger brother to venues like the Channel and Paradise in his teens. Jim's love for nature flourished after Karin introduced him to hiking. They explored local parks and Mass Audubon sanctuaries, marveling at wildlife like the Great Blue Heron. Jim and Karin's favorite place was Houghton's Pond. His green thumb extended to gardening organic vegetables and flowers, while his compassion led him to volunteer briefly at the Walpole Food Bank. It was a requirement that the bird feeders were filled at all times.

Jim and Karin's adventures in travel spanned continents. In the 1990s, they drove California's coast. In 2014, they visited Alaska's Denali and Glacier Bay National Parks, marveling at glaciers and Misty Fjords by seaplane. A 2017 Tuscany tour for 2 weeks included wineries, a hot-air balloon ride, and the Statue of David. For Karin's 50th birthday, they joined her twin sister in Peru, trekking to Machu Picchu and exploring the Amazon. They spent many good times in Martha's Vineyard with Karin's family and visiting Karin's brother in Syracuse, NY. Recently, Jim visited his mother, brother, and family in North Carolina, cherishing family time.

Jim found solace in simple pleasures at home: relaxing by the pool with Karin and their dogs over the years. His love for animals was evident in the care he gave to his beloved dogs Smokey, the Husky, and champion show dog Abbey, also Luther, and Eddie. His Humor shone through daily interactions—he often praised Karin's cooking with a heartfelt "Good dinner, Mrs. J." All who knew Jim knew his appetite was legendary.

Jim's contagious smile and laugh lit up rooms. Jim will be deeply missed by his devoted life partner, Karin, with whom he shared an inseparable bond. The two were rarely apart, often seen hand in hand, their love and companionship constantly present in their lives. His family and friends will deeply miss him.

Beloved life partner of Karin E. Johnsen

Loving father of James W. Cameron Jr. and his wife, Erin, of Norwood

Cherished grandfather of Lillian Riccioli, her husband Carmine, and their four children in Florida

Devoted son of Ann (Miller) Cameron of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and the late Clarence "Buddy" Cameron

Dear brother of Maryann Foley and her late husband John of Stoughton, Laurence "Larry" Cameron and his wife Marciana "Annie" of Hyde Park, Robert Cameron and his wife Geni of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and the late Margaret Cameron

Survived by nephew Lucas Cameron of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and many relatives and friends.

A special thanks to the world-class care of Massachusetts General Hospital, the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Needham, Spaulding Rehabilitation in Charlestown and the loving care at Foremost of Sharon.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Jim's Life Celebration on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 from 9:30 am - 11:30 am in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. A Funeral home service will follow at 11:30 am. Interment will take place privately.

Instead of flowers, memorial donations in Jim's name may be made to the MSPCA at MSPCA-Angell, Attn: Donations, 350 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130 or by visiting https://www.mspca.org/donate-now/, or to Project Smile at PO Box 336, Hopedale, MA 01747 or by visiting https://www.projectsmile.org/ and selecting 'Donate'.