James R Mack

Oakdale - James R. "Jim" Mack, 74, adoring husband of Judy Mack, his whole life, of Oakdale, passed away July 21, 2021, unexpectedly after a long battle with Parkinson's disease and pulmonary disease. He was born Jan. 29, 1947, in Altoona, Pa., to parents, Joseph and Urdine Mack.

Jim graduated from Altoona High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1964. He served in the Submarine Service for 12 years, which included the Vietnam War era. He then worked at Electric Boat as a senior engineer, retiring in 2013. His excellent problem-solving abilities and creativity to design was acknowledged with numerous awards.

As a member of Niantic Baptist Church, he served his Lord in many different ways; generosity and excellence describe his attitude toward everything, bringing a sense of humor that was unparalleled. Every week Jim would record and send via emails, all the music from that service to those unable to attend and anyone else who asked.

He was active for decades as a Scout leader. including serving as a beloved scoutmaster. Most recently, he participated in the Whaling City Athletic Club/Parkinson's Boxing Club, the Electric Boat Management Group for retirees and the Niantic Baptist Church Men's Bible Study.

His hobbies included photography, breeding Labrador Retrievers and collecting matchbooks, vacuum tubes, coins and stamps.

He leaves to cherish him his loving wife Judy; son Adam and his wife Heather; grandsons, Logan and Quinn; brother Bill and his wife Joan; brother-in-law Bob and his wife Laura; and sister-in-law Pam and her husband Steve; along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; as well as siblings, Gene, Mary Lou and Nancy.

If you care to remember Jim with a donation, please consider any of the following: (1) Labs4Rescue P. O. Box 955, CT 06419; (2) Newtown Underwater Search + Rescue P. O. Box 3203, Newton, CT 06470 (or online at nusar.org); (3) Whaling City Athletic Club, 436 Broad Street, New London, CT 06320. NOTE: Please add Kent Ward/Parkinson's Group in MEMO line.

The family is requesting no flowers. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 6, at Niantic Baptist Church with a light supper to follow.