James A. Muise

James A. “Jim” Muise passed away peacefully on Monday, August 7th, with his daughter by his side. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Margaret “Peggy” Muise (Ruane), parents Raymond and Margaret Muise, and brothers Kenneth, Victor, Douglas, and Earl. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Kara, and cherished brother Leo, as well as a loving extended family including many nieces and nephews.

Jim was a proud “Noddler” raised and educated in East Boston, Mass. A graduate of East Boston High School, he obtained a Bachelor of Science from Northeastern University. He loved growing up on Saratoga Street and had many fond recollections of the neighborhood and city. His most treasured memories included stories of the “old homestead” as he called his parent’s house, homemade rappie pie and dumplings, card games and fishing trips with his brothers. In retirement, he returned to East Boston weekly to volunteer with Boston Partners in Education for many years at the school he attended as a boy, Hugh Roe O’Donnell Elementary School. He loved working with the children, sharing stories, tutoring, and mentoring, as well as being a surrogate grandfather. His other volunteer passion project was for the Boston Marathon as a medical volunteer for many years and as a team captain.

After high school, Jim served in the U.S. Army overseas in Orleans, France and the National Guard at home. He was able to travel widely while stationed in Europe & followed his brother Ken’s advice to travel as much as possible. While in Rome he was able to attend an audience with Pope Pius XII who told him “He who travels, knows much.” His love of travel continued after his time in the military. Jim’s favorite destinations included New England, Michigan, New Mexico, and Hawaii. Destinations frequently included visiting local fire stations, collecting patches, and photos taken with unique fire hydrants.

Professionally, Jim held many positions including sales and surveying, as well as a buyer for Polaroid. He greatly enjoyed working in Technology Square in Cambridge, Mass. and interacting with Dr. Edwin Land.

He loved his adopted hometown of Middleton and served as a part-time call firefighter/EMT for 29 years. Moving to Middleton in the early 1970s, he got to experience the town in quieter times when one might come out of the store and have horses tied to your car bumper. Jim enjoyed carving walking sticks and giving them away, working in his yard, World War II history, and keeping up with Nova Scotian news. He was happiest at home with his “girls”: wife Peggy and daughter Kara. 

Jim was a teller of tales and jokes, always happy to start up a conversation with family, friends, and anyone in line at Market Basket. If you met him, you’d part with at least one good story, piece of unsolicited advice or a joke (possibly a bad joke). He leaves behind a long life that was well lived and widely traveled, full of stories and life lessons he tried to share with those willing to listen and some not. Jim was a daily Boston Globe reader and was always sure to check the obituaries. It is hoped that he would appreciate this obituary. He will be greatly missed.

Visitation on Monday evening from 4-7pm. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in Jim’s name to the Nantucket Lightship/LV-112, 256 Marginal St. East Boston, MA 02128.

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