Sugarman, James A. ( Jim)
Born February 19, 1954 in the Bronx, Jim died June 28, 2021 in his home in Belmont Mass after an 18 month battle with sarcoma, a rare form of cancer.
A life long musician, Jim started playing drums in the family’s brownstone at age 10, and never stopped. He graduated from the Bronx High School of Science at age 17, and spent one year at SUNY Albany, where he played drums in a rock band. In 1973, Jim moved to the Boston area to attend Berklee College of Music. He graduated in 1977 and remained there working in the scheduling department until 1992. He received his Masters in Business from Bentley College in 1991, and went on to IT work for more than 25 years at companies including Fidelity, Kendall Healthcare, and Nypro (now Jabil).
Jim leaves behind his wife Eleanor (Buckley) of almost 39 years, brother Howard, son Scott and wife Marissa Sugarman, son Michael Sugarman and wife Caitlin Allen, daughter Vomella, two baby grandsons Calvin and Riley, and many nieces and nephews.
Jim loved music: he played drums, guitar and taught himself bass in the last few years. He played jazz, folk, rock, blues, and has been a member of countless bands. He had many fellow musician friends, and many more friends who loved his wit, smile, and kindness. He was highly active in his community, including as a member of the First Church in Belmont, UU. He served on the Coffee House outreach program, which organizes monthly benefit concerts, the mission/ vision committee, the communications committee, and the Religious Education program. He shared his knowledge and love of music with the church community.
A memorial service will take place at the First Church in September.
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