James W. Mackinnon

MacKINNON - James William Jim A devoted, loving, and caring husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, neighbor, mentor and friend. He taught us all humanity through his wisdom, faith, leadership, inspiration, and guidance. He departed this world on October 18, 2022 at the age of 85, after an extremely courageous battle against pneumonia. He was preceded in death by wife, Patricia; son, John; and his beloved parents, Albert and Victoria. Survived by his children, James (Shirley Neff), Michael (Daniel Roberge), Vickie (Brent Propst), and Jennifer (Edwin Parker); grandchildren, Andrew, Jordan, John, Shane, and Bryce MacKinnon, Keil and Alexandria Alex Propst; along with numerous cherished family members that loved him unconditionally. James was the youngest of the MacKinnon family siblings. In high school, he played both basketball and baseball for his brother Bob. After graduating from Canisius with a BS Degree in Business Economics, James married his high school sweetheart Patricia, the love of his life and best friend, on October 3, 1958. He enlisted and served in the United States Army Reserve from January 17, 1960 - June 7, 1967. He served in the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron, 6th Armored Cavalry as 2nd Lt - 1203 - Tank Unit Commander and voluntarily served six months of active duty during that time. James was hired at Cardinal OHara H.S. as a gym teacher and as the first basketball and cross-country coach. He later coached at the Diocesan Prep, DeSales H.S. and Turner H.S. He then started working at New York Life Insurance Company; quickly excelled and retired as a Managing Agent. After retirement, James and Patricia moved back to Buffalo where both lived out their remaining days together in their home. James avid love of sports continued when he rooted for the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees. He would often be found watching these games with a bowl of ice cream alongside his dog, Taffy. Please join the family for a Mass of Christian Burial and Farewell on April 22, 2023 10:30 AM at St. Marys Church, 6919 Transit Rd., Swormville, NY