James Joseph LaBossiere, born on December 19, 1939, in Norway, Maine, was the son of Alfred "Cooper" and Gladys Clement LaBossiere. He passed away peacefully on May 3rd, 2025 leaving behind an enduring legacy as a father and a teacher. James, better known as Jim, graduated from Norway High School in 1958, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, earning the title of the most athletic male of his class. He pursued higher education at the University of Maine, earning a degree in mathematics in 1962 and a Masters in Education in 1968. Jim's passion for teaching and coaching began at Higgins Classical Institute in Charleston, Maine, where he taught math and physics and served as the assistant football coach and baseball coach. He later dedicated 26 years to teaching mathematics at Old Town High School, where he also coached the baseball team to an undefeated season, winning the Penobscot Valley Conference. For his outstanding achievements, Jim was named Maine State Baseball Coach of the Year and John Bapst Quarterback Club Outstanding Baseball Coach in Eastern Maine. After retiring from Old Town High School, he continued to teach as an adjunct professor at E.M.V.T.I. and University College in Bangor, eventually returning to full-time teaching at University College in 1993 until his retirement in 2013. A dedicated educator, it is difficult to go anywhere in Maine without encountering a former student who remembers him fondly. An avid outdoorsman throughout his life, Jim's love for the outdoors was evident from a young age. He learned to swim before he was seven so he could go fishing alone and enjoyed fishing throughout his life. He introduced his family to fly fishing at his favorite fishing camp, Tim Pond, and cherished his camp in Sodom, Maine. Jim was also an avid hunter and had a special bond with his dogs. His last dog was a miniature schnauzer, Sophie. Jim's kindness was evident in how he treated everyone, always offering a friendly hello and a smile. He had a remarkable ability to remember people and their names, making each encounter feel personal and special. Jim shared a lifelong friendship with Don Soler and they spent countless hours hunting and fishing together. Jim was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Old Town. Jim was a devoted and loving father. He is survived by his daughter Beth LaBossiere and her husband John Gerken of Yarmouth; his son Michael LaBossiere of Florida; grandchildren Frank Klingensmith and his wife Mariah, and Dale Klingensmith and his partner Santi; great granddaughter Eleanor Klingensmith; three stepchildren Steven Thomas and his wife Deborah, Jason Thomas, and Cheryl Thomas, nine step grandchildren, and three step great- grandchildren; a sister Exilda Sawtelle of Rumford. He was predeceased by his wife, Carolyn, and is fondly remembered by his wonderful companion, Nancy Blanchard, who came into his life after Carolyn's passing. Jim's life was filled with remarkable achievements and wonderful moments. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A time of visitation will be held 4-7PM Tuesday May 13, 2025 at Birmingham Funeral Home 438 Main Street, Old Town. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10AM Wednesday May 14 at Parish of the Resurrection of the Lord, Holy Family Church, 429 Main St Old Town. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Old Town. Immediately following the graveside service, all are invited to return to the Parish hall for a light luncheon and continued fellowship. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Jim's memory can be made to Maine Cancer Foundation www.mainecancer.org or Friends of Tim Pond www.friendsoftimpond.com