Published in the December 23, 2016 edition
BEDFORD — James M. Finn, 93, passed away at the Edith N. Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford on Dec. 18.
James was born in Malden on March 16, 1923 to the late George and Annie (Sheehan) Finn. He was raised in Malden, graduated from Malden High School in 1941 and received his associate’s degree from North Shore College in 1976. After high school James entered the U.S. Navy and served his country with pride during World War II.
Following his service to his country Mr. Finn started working as a grinder at GE until 1950. In 1949 he joined the Malden Police Department and ended his career as Chief of Police in 1983.
James lived most of his life in Malden and the past 10 years in Melrose. He enjoyed walking, music, gardening, reading and shopping. But most of all he enjoyed spending time with his loving family.
Mr. Finn was the beloved husband of over 60 years to the late Mary F. (Fleming) Finn. He was the loving father of Karen Mary Keegan of Malden, Joyce A. Finn of Melrose and Paula M. LaVita of Wakefield. He was the cherished grandfather of Katie, Maggie, Jack, Lindsey, James and Courtney. He was the proud great-grandfather of Fineas and Brendan. He was the caring brother of Margaret McBride Stoneham and the late Anna Fitzgerald, Mary Burke, John Finn, Roy Finn and David Finn. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
A special thank you to the wonderful care and support that Steve Kirby and Nancy Pierce gave to our Dad.
Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St., Melrose on Thursday morning, Dec. 22, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Church, Herbert Street, Melrose at 10:30 a.m.
Interment with military honors at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in James’ name to Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition, P.O. Box 222, Rockland MA 02370 or www.mbcc.org, or to Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown MA 02472 or www.alz.org.
To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com.
