James C. Pitcher

James C. Pitcher, 67, passed away at home early Saturday morning with his loving family by his side.

He was born on June 16, 1957, in Ogdensburg, NY, the son of Hugh and Lois “Denise” Wilson Pitcher. He graduated from Hammond Central School in 1975.

“Pitch” was a longtime owner/operator of Pitcher Farms, Hammond and was heavily involved in the community. He proudly served on the Hammond Town Board for thirty-two years and nine years with the Farm Service Agency.

Jim was positive and very personable throughout his life. Whenever he met someone, he always took a genuine interest in “their story”. He thoroughly enjoyed broadening his understanding of the world whether through personal experiences or reading. Jim loved the outdoors and relished time on the river, especially boating and water skiing. In later years, he had many memorable downhill ski trips with friends. Whether working, playing, or just relaxing outside, Jim’s favorite place was in nature.

Jim’s family, especially “his girls”, were most important to him, and he had immense respect and affection for his sons-in-law. When grandchildren blessed his life, he prized their hugs and shared silly moments with them that brought a great deal of laughter to all. His daughters and their families were his sunshine.

Jim took great pride in his 1830s ancestral Scottish stone house that he restored over the years. He was happiest when family visited and friends dropped by his home for a chat. Company always felt welcome, whether it was sitting outside overlooking the landscape and enjoying a light breeze or sharing conversation at the kitchen table, feeling toasty on a cold, winter day. He embraced all company in his home.

Jim cherished his close friendships that he established over the years. Whether it was a high school classmate, travel friend, ski buddy, cousin, or new acquaintance who soon became a special friend, Jim held each one dear to his heart.

A marriage to Nancy Faucher ended, although they remained very good friends throughout his life.

Jim is survived by his daughters Katheryn “Kate” (Keith) Goltschman, St. Louis, MO and Betsy (Shae) Adamshick, Dallas, PA; siblings Timothy, Hammond, Lynette (Ronald) Thompson, Hammond, Karlyen (Andrew) Manke, Ogdensburg, and Diane (Tim) Collette, Redwood; five grandchildren, Birdie, Ruby, and Lily (Goltschman) Lucy and Max (Adamshick); many nieces, nephews and cousins; and a very special friend, “Cousin Steve” Demick.

Calling hours will be held at Costello Funeral Home, Alexandria Bay, on Friday, May 9th from 4-7. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10th at 11:00 am at Costello Funeral Home, with Reverend Shea Zellweger officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hammond Presbyterian Church, 217 St. Lawrence Ave., Hammond, NY 13646, Hospice of the St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US-11, Potsdam, NY 13676 or Richard E. Winter Center at claxtonhepburn.org.