Erwin "Jim" Fields

Born May 12, 1939, Jim was a graduate of Phoenix Central Schools, Class of 1960. He served his country from 1957-1964 in Germany and was a member of the Air National Guard. He worked at Nestles in Fulton, was a school bus driver for Phoenix Central Schools, and went on to become a Teamster for Local #317 for 35 years. He was a life member and 55 year veteran of the Phoenix Enterprise Volunteer Fire Department and was a life member of VFW Post 5540 in Phoenix. Jim served as VFW Post Commander, Oswego County Commander, and District Commander. He was a member of the Marine Corps League, DAV Chapter 108 and Auxiliary Member of DAV 108. He was a member of the Holy Family Village in Cape Coral, FL, was also a life member of AmVets, Post #1997, a life member of the American Legion and a member of the Moose Fraternity. Jim volunteered at the VA in Cape Coral in patient transport, and he served as a driver for the DAV in NY.

Jim was predeceased by wives Norene and Carole, his parents Earl and Gertrude, son Danny, great-grandson and namesake, James, his siblings Earl, Virgina, Vera, Robert, Ralph, George, Willis, Leona, Elaine, Charles, Paul, and Gary. He is survived by wife Teresa, daughters, DeLaine (Cugie), Kim, Jennifer (Michael), Bobby (Betsy), Sarena, Dawn, Bridget (Phil), Alika, Arlene, and multitudes of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Every family needs a hero, and Jim was ours. He enjoyed helping all those in need, repairing things and working with his hands. He was an avid fisherman and taught multiple generations of children and relatives to love boating, water skiing and everything lake related. He was an avid reader, loved history, and learning about the world.

A celebration of life will be held at Phoenix VFW Post 5540 at a later date. Per his request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service, and Jim’s remains will be interred in Phoenix Cemetery alongside all of his relatives. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of his namesake, three-year-old James Paul Duncan.