Obituary of Jim Orcutt

Olean, NY James R. Orcutt, 74, of 334 Hamilton Ave., Apt 7, passed on peacefully Monday (June 13, 2022) following a long illness. Jim, born Aug 19, 1947, was a lifelong Olean area resident, the son of John W. Orcutt and Jackie (Welsh) Orcutt. Family survivors are siblings Sharon (Chuck) Knowland, Penfield, Debbie (Dan) Hoffman, Farmington, and Richard (Kevin) Orcutt, Grants Pass, OR. Nieces and nephews include Tim Knowland, Kristen (Brenton) McNeil, Josh (Jamie) Hoffman and Caitlin (Jon) Durfey; 1 great niece and 3 great nephews. Following studies at St. Bonaventure University, Miami Dade College and 2 years of service with the United States Army, Jim returned home and spent a number of years at the old Castle Restaurant where he worked through the ranks to managing special events. He later moved on to employment with the City of Olean with service at the Olean Airport and ended with retirement from the Public Works Department. Jim lived life to the beat of his own drums. Material possessions meant little to him. His circle of friends were his greatest possession. Life’s best times for him were shared with others enjoying a good seafood dinner, cocktails, and possibly a casino visit. To say the least, his unique brand of humor and world view ensured there were no dull gatherings. Very independent and stubborn to the end, Jim battled cancer for several years. While he had always been quick to step in with a helping hand for others experiencing difficult times, he was a very tough patient himself. One special friend, Sally “A” Jadlowski, matched his level of stubbornness and refused to back off while visiting him daily and doing her best to keep Jim comfortable and his affairs in order. His family will always be grateful for Sally’s love and support and bridging the miles between them. Jim’s wish was for cremation with his ashes to be scattered at locations special to him. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Those wishing to honor Jim’s friendship can do so with contributions to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are under the direction of the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean. Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com.