Obituary of James F. Wilson

James F. Wilson, 80, of Youngstown passed away on January 22nd, 2024 in his home. Jim was born April 12, 1943 in Welland, Ontario to the late James E. Wilson and the late Gladys Kaman. Jim entered the United States Marine Corps in 1961. He served in S2 intelligence at Camp Lejeune from 1961-63 and deployed from there with the 6th Marines to Guantanamo Bay Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 and to the Mediterranean Sea. Jim was then assigned to Shore Patrol duty at Sasebo, Japan from 1963-65. From 1965-66 Jim was assigned as an S2 at Coronado Island, California where he constructed a Viet Cong Village and training site based on intelligence he acquired while in Vietnam as an S2. The site prepared many Marines before going to Vietnam and was credited with saving many lives. Jim was honorably discharged in 1966 as a Sergeant. Jim then went on to work for Michigan Bell as an installer in 1966 and transferred to the New York Telephone Company in 1969. Jim retired from New York Telephone (Verizon) in 1991. In 1971 Jim joined the NY Air National Guard and served in the 107th Civil Engineering Squadron as an electrician. He was promoted to the rank of SMSGT, became the Electrical Superintendent, and retired in 1990. In 1991 Jim started his own business and installed telephone and alarm systems in western NY for many years. Jim was a member of the Wheatfield American Legion Post and the Lewiston Moose Lodge. Jim enjoyed fishing, mechanics, and technology. He was a gifted handyman. Jim is survived by his wife, Michelle Wilson, his children Dawn Vuyk (Thomas), James Wilson, Briana Wilson and five grandchildren. Apr 12, 1943 - Jan 22, 2024