| Date of Birth | April 13, 1946 |
| Date Deceased | August 1, 2024 |
| Hometown | Elmira/Avoca |
| Home State | N.Y. |
| Service Date | August 10, 2024 |
| Service Time | 3 p.m. |
| Service Location | Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Avoca |
James Edward Lynch
ELMIRA – James Edward Lynch, 78, passed away on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at home in Elmira, NY.
He was born April 13, 1946 in Havre de Grace, Maryland and was predeceased by his mother, Ruth Peck Lynch of Avoca, NY and father, George G. Lynch of Maryland.
Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years Christine Raniewicz Lynch; stepdaughter, Lisa Lynch of California; stepson, Todd Waddell (Julie) of Virginia; step grandchildren, Kara (Chet) Bickhart and their newborn son, Charlie of Massachusetts and Jake Waddell, Ohio. Survived also by sisters-in-law, Connie Rempe, Betty Clauss, Mary Ann Girardi and their families as well as Avoca family, Sharon Peck and “special” nieces, Beth Peck, Julie House, Dana Dickson and nephew, Davy Peck and their families, plus Jim’s most powerful Euchre partner, Kathy Gardner of California.
Jim went to high school in Avoca, NY graduating in 1964. He went on to attend the University of Rochester. He served in the US Army from 1967-1969 stationed mainly in Germany. He then worked for McConnell Manufacturing in Plattsburgh, NY and Grand Forks, North Dakota.
In 1981 Jim and Christine reconnected after 15 years, having met in college. They were married shortly thereafter and survived 17 winters in Grand Forks, North Dakota. During that time Jim became involved in the car business through Wes Rydell of the Rydell Automotive Group. Jim served as a Manager in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
In 1998, Rydell and GM offered him the opportunity to move to California to run a new dealership project in the San Fernando Valley. He stayed on with the project until he retired. Jim and Christine then returned to New York in 2012 making their home in Elmira.
Jim enjoyed a fulfilling career – but one of his greatest sources of gratitude was for AA and his 38 years of sobriety. He had many health challenges over the years but maintained a positive attitude and determination. He always took the time to thank those who helped him.
Though he had no children of his own he was a father figure to many. He enriched the lives of others with his encouragement, caring ways and generosity. Whether in business or personal life, he always had time to listen and give great advice.
Jim Lynch will always be remembered for his off-beat sense of humor, kindness, honesty and intelligence. He was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.
The family is grateful to Peggy, his compassionate caregiver, and to Care First Hospice.
Service for Jim will be at the Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home 22 N. Main Street in Avoca, NY. Calling is from 2:00-3:00 p.m. SATURDAY, August 10, 2023 with service at 3:00 p.m.
For any gifts in remembrance – please consider a donation to Jim’s favorite charity: Shriners Hospital https://lovetotherescue.org.
The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Jim’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances of Jim are welcome below in the comment section or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.
Farewell my friend! Deepest condolences to Christine & each who loved him! Beautiful obituary! So true! I was in Jim’s Avoca class & Student Council President. Jim’s words written in my graduating yearbook were the most insightful & caring. They are the only ones I remember to this day! Really! Peace to all! Jim Duquette
Chris & Family
We are so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your family.