James F. “Jim” Burrell, 67, of Rochester, NY, formerly of Hornell, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 1st at his home.

Born in Corning, NY on April 14, 1950, he was the son of Frederick and Mary (Carroll) Burrell.

Jim grew up in a household filled with the love of his caring parents and five sisters in Corning. He was a graduate of Corning East High School (Class of 1968) and he later earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Biology from Brockport State College.

As a devoted New York Yankees and New York Giants fan, rock and roll enthusiast, Scrabble and Yahtzee aficionado and dedicated umpire, Jim enjoyed a plethora of hobbies and interests. His energy, competitive nature and sense of humor could lift anyone’s spirits. Most importantly, he was a dedicated father and grandfather whose passion for family was evident in all of his life accomplishments.

Jim was first employed at the Corning Glass Works and later operated Post Time Bar, which was located next to Off Track Betting (OTB) in Corning. He then worked in Environmental Services at Arnot Ogden Hospital in Elmira. Jim spent the majority of his career in Hornell where he was employed at St. James Mercy Health as the Director of Environmental Services for 20 years. He was beloved by his many colleagues and friends. His competitive nature and sense of humor will forever be remembered through his epic “Annual Update Jeopardy”, “March Madness Pools” and “Word of the Day” challenges. Jim brought laughter and happiness to all those around him.

While Jim was proud of his accomplishments professionally, his two most proud titles were “Dad” and “Pop.” He would often share stories about the accomplishments of his four children and three precious grandchildren. His sons Kyle and Keith Burrell share their father’s competitive nature, love of sports and impeccable taste in rock music. They look forward to sharing Jim’s impressive record and CD collection with their future children.

Jim’s favorite place to be was the baseball park, whether watching the Yankees, Rochester Red Wings or umpiring at any one of many parks in Western New York. His oldest grandchild, Addisyn (daughter of Kelcie Cieslica), can often be found dancing and singing at “Pop’s house.” Addisyn loved to spend time coloring, writing, and creating science experiments with “Pop.” Living around the corner, Kelcie and Addisyn brought happiness, love and support to Jim throughout his health struggles. Logan and Rex (sons of Courtney and Matthew Clark) lived for their “Pop.” Jim’s face would light up when he heard Logan, an avid reader, arrive at his apartment with a backpack filled with dinosaur books. Logan will also continue to have fond memories of “Pop” at Old Forge, NY, where Jim would take his family in the summer and enjoy go cart rides and of course, competitive miniature golf.

Jim was a “fighter.” For the past ten years he battled many health problems ranging from throat cancer to heart complications. He never complained and never gave up. He continued to dedicate his life to his family and let his passions drive his decisions. Jim was an inspiration to all who knew him and will continue to inspire those who were impacted by his love, intellect and passion. Pop will be forever missed, but remembered with the fondest of memories.

Surviving are 2 sons, Kyle (Stefanie) Burrell of Lexington, MA and Keith Burrell of Rochester, NY; 2 daughters, Courtney (Matthew) Clark of Wellsville, NY and Kelcie Cieslica of Webster, NY; 5 sisters, Peggy (Fred) Hemeon of Troy, NY, Jane (Mike) Boyer of Cincinnati OH, Carroll (Andy) Collins of West Newbury, MA, Patty Corle of Corning, NY; Cathy (Dave) Elliott of Mason, OH; 3 grandchildren, Addisyn Higgins, Logan Clark and Rex Clark; several nieces & nephews.

The family of James F. “Jim” Burrell will receive friends on Monday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10:00 at St. Ann’s Church.

Jim’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Jimmy V Foundation For Cancer Research, 14600 Weston Parkway, Cary, NC 27513. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.