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James John Borowski, 80

James John Borowski, of North Adams, MA, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Williamstown Commons.

He was born in Northampton, MA, on May 22, 1946, the son of Stanley John Borowski and Tillie Loretta (Pietraskiewicz) Borowski. Jim graduated from Easthampton High School in 1964 and went on to attend American International College. He later earned his Master’s degree from Springfield College.

Jim worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission for many years, retiring in 2008. He was a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and also worked as a therapist for Howland Associates. In addition to his professional career, Jim coached the women’s basketball team at MCLA for three years and the Hoosac Valley High School girls’ softball team for three years. He touched many lives, offering support during difficult times and always lending a compassionate ear. Jim was active in the local sports scene and served as an official for baseball, softball, and basketball for over 20 years.

Jim enjoyed riding his motorcycle, reading, spending time on Cape Cod, and traveling to Saratoga to indulge his passion for horse racing. He spent summers at Sand Springs, enjoyed fishing, and loved taking rides with his dogs, Mike and Molly. He also loved is two parrots, Congo and Isabella.

He cherished his children and grandchildren, always taking an interest in their lives and offering guidance and words of wisdom.

Survivors include his longtime companion, Ann Shartrand; two daughters, Jamie Laprade of Pittsfield, MA, and Laura Borowski of Port St. Lucie, FL; and one son, Bryan Borowski (Samantha) of Columbus, GA. He also leaves seven grandchildren: Micayla Levesque, Seth Laprade, Brayden Laprade, Banks Borowski, Penn Borowski, Wells Borowski, and Vera Borowski, as well as former son-in-law Scott Laprade. He was predeceased by his brother, John Borowski. You will be missed, Jim, Dad, Papa—Top Dog.

Graveside services for James John Borowski will take place at Southview Cemetery in North Adams, MA, on Thursday, June 18, at 11:00 a.m. The Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapel, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, MA, is in charge of arrangements. To add to the book of memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

 


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Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
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Dear Anne, Laura, Jamie, and Family
So sorry for your loss. Though we were miles apart enjoyed talking on the phone to Jim, it kept us close. Vinny and Jim
worked many softball games together. Known as the dynamic duo. Until we meet again. Jim you will be in our hearts. Will miss you Big Guy
from: Vin and Cathy Livelyon: 06-17-2026

I'm so very sorry to see this. Loved playing ball for him. We had some great times both on and off the court. It was always fun to run into him around town and reminisce. He gave me my nickname "Jack" (after Jack Foley) and would yell it from across the parking lot whenever he saw me, even years later. He was a great guy and will really be missed.
from: Mary Gironon: 06-16-2026

Rip big Jim True Gentlemen and a great Catcher.
from: Edward Whalenon: 06-16-2026

RIP Jimmy B!, I’ll always have fond memories of our MRC times!! They were the best and you were such a BIG part of that!
from: Susie Ameen Fisheron: 06-16-2026

Jim refereed our YMCA and Summer League games always with poise and composure. God Bless.
from: Glen Chalmerson: 06-16-2026

Rest in peace Jim.q
from: on: 06-15-2026

Ann and family, we are saddened to read of Jim’s passing. Such a great guy that we got to know through Hoosac Valley softball & coaching our daughter Brittney. Thinking of all of Jim’s loved ones at this time.
from: Heather & Mike Lemoineon: 06-15-2026

Anne. I am so sorry for your loss. The name immediately rang a bell and brought back memories of my time at NARH when I first met Jim. He helped a lot of people. My prayers are with you.
from: Kathy Denaulton: 06-15-2026

So sorry for your loss Anne..May he rest in peace.....
from: Betty Coussouleon: 06-15-2026

Sorry for your loss ? jim was a great guy!!!!
from: Bruce Laperleon: 06-15-2026

So sorry for your loss. We would play basketball at lunch time at the new YMCA and I thought I was a good shooter until I played with Jim. He hardly ever missed from either corner of the court. I was 6 years younger than him but we hit it off immediately. He was such a nice guy to me. Maybe one day somewhere in time we’ll play again.
from: Wayne Duvalon: 06-15-2026

I send my condolences. He was a nice, nice person - and I liked when he officiated our high school games.
from: Lisa Kittler Schifillition: 06-15-2026

Rest in God’s eternal peace now Jim ?
from: Debbieon: 06-15-2026

RIP Big Jim
from: Bob Gallagheron: 06-15-2026

Jim had a sweet corner jump shot. RIP
from: Dick Syriacon: 06-15-2026

My condolences Ann and Jim's family, may he rest in peace.
from: Delores Dapperon: 06-15-2026

So sorry to hear about Jim. He was a good man. My condolences.
from: samuel gomezon: 06-15-2026

My condolences
from: AL Giorgion: 06-15-2026

This is such sad news. Jim was a kind and friendly person. His presence had a very calming and settling effect. I will miss having chats with him and seeing him driving around with his dog. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. God bless you, Jim.
from: Carl Villanuevaon: 06-15-2026

My condolences to the family. He was a great person. RIP Jim
from: Judy Lichton: 06-15-2026

Laura, Anne and family, So sad to hear of Jim’s passing my thoughts and condolences go out to all of you.
from: Deb Casuscelli Blanchardon: 06-15-2026

So sorry for your lost...he was my neighbor for many years.
from: Kerry Hoagon: 06-14-2026

So sorry for the passing of Jim. He was a very close friend of our family and will be deeply missed.
from: Ronald Livelyon: 06-14-2026

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