James R. St. Jean

ORANGE- James R. St. Jean, 71, of Chase Street, died on Monday, February 6, 2023 at Heywood Hospital in Gardner.

Born in Fitchburg on September 14, 1951, he was the son of Robert and Yvette (Guertin) St. Jean and grew up in Leominster, graduating from Leominster High School in 1970.

A heavy equipment operator for many years, he worked for Ricciardi Brothers in Worcester among several other companies before he became disabled.

James enjoyed camping, fishing and sport shooting. He especially loved his animals, “Nikki” and “Fat Kitty”.

A member of the Orange Gun Club, he also was a member of the Woodsman Rifle and Pistol Club in Athol.

Survivors include a son, Keith St. Jean of Leominster; a daughter, Cassie St. Jean of Eagle River, AK; a granddaughter, Mya St. Jean of Leominster; his longtime companion, Cindy Anderson and her children, Carrie Fernet and Michael Fernet, whom he helped raise; a sister, Judy Belliveau and her husband, Jim, of Fitchburg; a nephew, Brian Smith of Fitchburg; a niece, Jennifer Deluca of Fitchburg; an aunt and uncle, Pat and Ron Guertin;  along with a few cousins.

James was predeceased by his parents.

There are no calling hours.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 11 a.m. at South Cemetery, 585 South Main Street, Orange.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.

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