On Friday morning, March 24, 2023, James M. Breur, passed painlessly and peacefully after an 18-month battle with cancer. Loving husband, proud father, adoring papa, and dutiful son were but a few roles he excelled in over his 6+ decades on this earthly plain.
Jim was born on June 11, 1960, in Paterson, NJ. He was the son of Melvin Breur and Lois Blundell. He was predeceased by stepfathers Peter Huizenga and Clint Higbee and sister Linda Bushey.
A 1978 graduate of Vergennes Union High School, Jim joined the City of Vergennes Fire Department that same year. Rising through the ranks, he has proudly served as its Chief since 2009. Employed as a Fluor Industrial Services Regional Director overseeing the Global Foundries account, he split his time between the Essex, VT and Fishkill, NY sites.
In his free time, Jim could be found at any event involving his children and more recently his grandchildren. A lover of the ocean, the family cherished their time spent together on its shores. Jim also loved his tractors be they big or small. Mowing a lawn or clearing the land, he was at peace. He often said he was a simple man with simple pleasures. Among them were board games with the gang or dinner out with long-time friends. Laughter was always on the menu.
Jim is survived by wife Sandi Yandow; children Greg Yandow (fiancé Pammie Cushing), Amy Kittredge (husband Nate), mother Lois Higbee, mother-in-law Mae Miller, sisters Lorie Soter, Tonia Warner, brother Curt Huizenga, nephews Brannon & Justin Soter, aunt Betty Ann Opalka and a very special cousin Michelle DeCiuceis. There are also NJ/PA cousins too numerous to mention with whom he maintained close ties and many fond memories.
He is survived by those who have had his heart since before the day of their births: grandchildren, Jordan Yandow, Ayla, Kendall, Nolan Kittredge and great-grand-daughter Amelia Rose.
Jim’s family is indebted to so many who have supported us in so many ways throughout this journey. Most compassionately, Addison County Home Health & Hospice nurses: Wayne & Laura.
Jim’s life and legacy will be celebrated with all the traditions found in a Firefighter’s Funeral. Viewing: Thursday, March 30 (5-8pm). Funeral: Friday, March 31 (10 am). Both will be held at the City of Vergennes Fire Station. Parking on Friday at St Peter’s and shuttle rides to the station. To send online condolences or those who will not be able to attend the service the video of the service will be on the website on Wednesday, April 5th which will be located just below the obituary please visit www.brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com
Memorial gifts can be made to: Steven’s Hose Company, PO Box 224, Vergennes, VT 05491.