FLORIDA, Mass. — James William Birch, 88, of Florida, Mass., died on Thursday, January 17, 2019, at Williamstown Commons. 

He was born in Readsboro, Vt., on March 7, 1930, a son to the late John and Stella (Day) Birch. He attended schools in Readsboro. He was a decorated Air Force veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was first employed at Deerfield Glassine and then worked in maintenance at the Gabriel Abbott Memorial School. He also worked for a time at the Whitcomb Summit.

Mr. Birch was a member of the North Adams Eagles as well as Post 125 American Legion in North Adams. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, the former Stacia Barbara Stachelek, whom he married on January 16, 1954; two sons, Edward Birch and his wife, Lorie, of Florida, Mass., and Michael Birch of North Adams; a daughter, Helen Oakes and her husband, Russell, of Monroe, Mass.; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a brother, Robert Birch of Readsboro, Vt. 

Mr. Birch was pre deceased by three sisters, Martha Durfey, Grace Willey and Mary Barlow; and two brothers, John Birch Sr. and Clinton Birch.

Funeral notice: A funeral service to celebrate the life of James William Birch will be held on Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. at the Flynn and Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main Street, North Adams, Mass. 

Calling hours will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery in Florida, Mass., in the spring. Memorial Donations may be made to St. John Bosco Church in Stamford, Mass.