James W. Cencebaugh

James Wallace Cencebaugh, born May 14, 1941, in Dayton, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on June 13, 2024, at the age of 83.

James was the son of Acle Cencebaugh and Esma Thacker and was raised with his three brothers, Robert, Scott, and Edward. He graduated from Butler High School in Vandalia, Ohio, in 1959. He served in the US Army, stationed in Germany. After his military service, he took a cross-country motorcycle trip that led him to the 1000 Islands. He married Susan Gifford of Clayton on January 14, 1977.

He worked as the food and beverage manager at the 1000 Islands Country Club and as an estate manager on private islands. James was a skilled stone mason and bricklayer, and a proud member of the Union BAC Local 2. He was also a member of the Loyal Order of Moose #814 Ogdensburg and the American Legion Post #673 Black River. James had a passion for motorcycles and was a member of the Hades Hounds motorcycle clubs and an avid supporter of the Watertown Diva Ladys motorcycle club. He participated in numerous charity rides.

He will be remembered for his dedication and the love he shared with his family and friends.He is survived by his wife Susan, his daughter Julia (David Kloth), his stepchildren Troy (Angela Wilson) and Amy (Robert Shunk), and his grandchildren Everett Shunk (Emma) and Cole Millett, along with nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, June 29th at 11 am at the Clayton Cemetery. A celebration of life reception will follow at O’Brien’s Restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Jefferson County Public Health Service or Hospice of Jefferson County in his honor. (JCPHS, 531 Meade St., Watertown, NY, jcphs.org,  or Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham St., Watertown, NY 13601, jeffersonhospice.org)