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James H. Wilson

James H. Wilson

James H. Wilson, 76, formerly of 20 Maple St. Sinclairville, passed away in Olean General Hospital, Olean, New York on Thursday morning, August 9, 2018. Prior to hospitalization he had spent nearly two years at Absolut Care in Salamanca, N.Y.Jim was born on November 21, 1941, to the late Clarence and Shirley (Bristow) Wilson. He grew up on the family farm on the Old Chautauqua Road, south of Sinclairville. He was a 1959 graduate of the Cassadaga Valley Central School and attended Syracuse University as a Journalism major for several semesters in the early 1960’s.Those who knew Jim will remember his friendly manner, thoughtfulness, unfailing wit, dry sense of humor and engaging intellect. A voracious reader of near limitless interests, he possessed a lifelong passion for language and vocabulary. In conversation, he brought knowledgeable input into discussions on just about any subject. In earlier years, Jim enjoyed amateur photography, particularly focused on the natural beauty of remote locales in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Warren Counties and leaves an extensive collection of photo slides taken during his travels around the region. Throughout his life he enjoyed the companionship of a number of beloved dogs and was an ever faithful fan of the Buffalo Bills, never giving up the dream, (“Maybe this year!”) of their eventual resurgence.Jim began a career in radio in late 1964, first writing advertising copy for Jamestown’s WKSN, but quickly moved into local news coverage and later be-came the all night host on the popular Top 40 station, beginning each shift with his classic sign on: “Its Kissin’ Radio all night, whether you’re relaxing at home or laying some rubber on Third Street…” Jim later joined the news department at WBEN radio in Buffalo and often filled in on the outlet’s early morning farm show. In the 1970’s Jim was also on air at WDOE in Dunkirk. Sadly, a near fatal 1968 car accident resulted in the loss of Jim’s left leg and a severe chronic injury to his right leg that became increasingly debilitating, eventually forcing Jim into an early retirement. Jim is survived by his brothers; Dennis W. (Mina) Wilson and Nathan J. (Judy) Wilson, of Sinclairville, as well as a nephew, three nieces, several grand nieces and grand nephews.Besides his parents, Jim was predeceased by his

nephew, Terry Wilson and niece, Melinda Wilson.A memorial service for Jim is planned for Thursday, August 23 at 11 a.m. in the Park United Methodist Church, 49 Sinclair Drive, Sinclairville. A luncheon at the church will

follow immediately after the service.Final arrangements were handled by Jordan Funeral Home, Sinclairville.