Obituary of James J. Mason

GENEVA- James J. Mason, age 61, died at Light Hill Hospice House on Thurs. (July 28, 2022), following a two year battle with cancer. As per Jim's wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral. The family will receive guests from 4 to 7 on Fri. (Aug. 12), at the Sons of Italy on Prospect Ave., Geneva. Jim was born in Hornell, NY on Oct. 20, 1960. He was the son of Jack and Ruth Mason. Jim was a graduate of Wellsville High School in 1978. He continued his education at New Paltz and Buffalo State, earning his Bachelor's Degree in Art. He went on to receive his Masters of Education at Elmira College. Jim started his teaching career at Midlakes High School in Phelps and continued teaching Art at Romulus Central School for almost 30 years before his retirement. He used to always say, "These students are like my own kids. I'd have them in Kindergarten all the way through to senior year with some." He left a huge impact with many of his students. Family was everything to Jim. He loved doing activities with his 3 sons. From attending many Buffalo Bills games to traveling down under to Australia. Jim and his wife Michelle did many, many trips over the years. It was one of Jim's favorite things to do, especially when his sister Jackie traveled along. Because of his sister, Jim and Michelle were able to go places they have always dreamed of. The other favorite thing Jim loved was spending time with his granddaughters. He felt his greatest accomplishment was raising his 3 sons. He always said: "each one is unique." He took great pleasure in watching them accomplish many feats and become successful young men. Jim is survived by his wife of 32 years, Michelle George Mason; his sons, Adam (Chrissy) Michaels of Penfield, Marc of Washington D.C. and Erik (Krista Ortiz) of Austin, TX; granddaughters, Alana and Gia Michaels; sister, Jackie (Dan Bloom) of Dunkirk, MD; brothers-in-law, Michael (Mary Lou), David (Margaret), Steve, Dan and Matthew (Jennifer) George and a host of nephews and nieces. He also leaves behind his best friend, Roger Clemenson and special friends, Tim Bragg and Mariam Leonard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Ruth Mason; in laws, Abe and Phyllis George.